::...:..... ..,..._, aooording to .A.ct of Congrem, in the 1ear 186', bJ. GEORGE MV:NHO ok Co., Ia tae Clerk:'a Office of the District Court of the United Statee. for I.he Southern District ot New York. ., } 'f -r. .... ,,

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. MAD NANCY CHAPTER I. XILKIBRAN BAY-THB OASTLll!-MAD NANCY, Kilkieran Bay present a to the traveler's eye a bleak and uninviting prospect, though there is something sadly grand in its many features-somethiilg that thrills the heart with admiration, sorrow, and aw .e. Far as the gaze can extend lies spread out the watery plain ; thousands of gulls skim its surface or perch on the craggy rocks ; and along the sandy beach are scattered here and there rude huts, in which the fishermen reside. In summer time the Irish gentlemen from the surrounding country assemble t]leir families here to enjoy pure air and sea-bathing. The "Osprey's Nest" is the name bestowed on a long, I ,low, rambling edifice, in which the "ton'' find shelter during their stay, though some are better satsified with the simple fare and rougher accommodations offered by the fisher mens' wives, who,. when they have a spare room, make it known by hanging a rough board outside, labelled: "Boord-In' and Lodgin' Done IIere;" or Boordin' and Lodgin' To Let." The "Osprey's Nest" stands close beside the water, and although the building is sheltered on either side project ing promontories, the wild hurricanes that S'l'\'.'eep over the broad Atlantic dash foamiug spray high over the craggy

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10 MA.D NA.NOT, cliffs, and sometimes in stormy weather drive the roaring surge to the foot of the gothic veranda. During the winter the place is deserted and dreary. The panes in the windows are shattered by mischi e vous ur c hins; the mullions are smashed; while fragments of carving, pi e c e s of stuccoed drapery, broken vases, uprooted trees and sbn1bs litter the terrace in all dkections The "Nest" remained in this condition until spring, and then a body of workmen were always sent to make the necessary repairs previous to the arrival of its high-born owners. The huts and cabins that dotted the white beach numbered about fifty, but there were many more behind the rocks, in gloomy dells and dark ravines that could not be seen froll'.\ the coast . Honest, hardy toilers dwelt in the s e humblEl abodes, clan king their chain s of oppres s i on, and striving to keep the gaunt spectre of starvation from their doors Several boais were dancing on the waters in the sheltered cove, and about two hnndred yards from the n,eare st island of Lettermulleil, a snug, rakish-looking craft might be seen Ifing at anchor, with no being on its deck save an old weather-beaten salt," who reclined lazily ag&inst a coil of rope, smOking a short pipe. The scenery in the background was mountainous and picturesque, while far away above "Saint Anthony's Nose," a crag, whose front resembled a man's face, pointing upward \ to the frowning sky, towered the haunted ruins of O'Hara's Castle ., The walls fllat enclosed Ure courtyard were breached in many places ; the bridge across the moat was falling pie c e by piece into the stagnant water beneath ; the great gates had fallen from their massive hinges, leaving the weed-grown courtyard, that had once echoed to the tramp of prancing steeds and gallant knights, exposed to view; and a solitary mountain gqat was st anding on the marblt! steps cropping the grass that sprouted from every crevice. The rools kept up an incessent cawing around its disman tled towers ; the wind wailed mournfully through -its de chambers; and numberJess vines robed the ancient

PAGE 11

KAD N A!ITOY. 11 ruins in a living canopy of green, as though mocking its decay. Not far from the castle was a small chapel. This had been kept in repair, and, every Sabbath, Father Darcy prE13ched therein to those who wished to know the word of God. hl the vault beneath the sacred edifice slumbered the O'Haras, male and female, and their tombs were adorned with many strange devices, mingled with armorial bearings, heraldic designs, and knightly inscriptions. But their ancient name was extinct-their glory had departed-and Time had them among the things that were. High above the main body of the castellated ruin rose a sol itary tower, that dtified both Time and Tempest. Proudly it reared its mossy head, like a grim warrior amid the ruin of battle, down on all around, its narrow-grated win dows glaring like the eyes of an ogre whenever the pale moonbeams gilded its towering crest; and the superstitious peasants solemnly' averred that it was ilaunted. Be the tale true or falee, strange noi.Ses were somElimes heard in the tower at midnight, a voice was heard chanting old ballads, the sweet straihs of a harp floated on the air, and a tall figure appeared at the upper window, a white rob e such as the Lady Geraldine wore when living. But thel tower was nQt haunted.:_it was tenanted. An old wQIUan had taken her abode there, but no one knew who she wast nor could they tell whence she came. She had suddenly ap peared among them about a year previous to the opeiiing of our tale and sh e ma.de her Ii ving by telling fortunes among the gentle folks, by singing, and pla y ing the harp. M a ny bad questioned her ; m:;.ny had asked her name ; many liad asked from whence she came; but she gave them no informatipn. Thinking she ought to have a name, tl,le "chris tened" her "Mad Nancy," and by that tit\e she was known among rich and poor. it is a beautiful aflemoon in early spring, Nancy ls eeated OD a low stool in the topmost chamber Of the tower. -.

PAGE 12

MAD NANOl'.. The apartment is about twenty feet square; the walls are rough stone ; and the light steals in through a narrow-grated aperture, revealing the interior. A bndle of rushes that are scattered on the floor in one corner, partly covered with a faded patchwork quilt, is her bed; a bag of'rnountain moss serves for a pillow. A round table, three stools, and an t:normous chest, is all the furniture the apartment contains. In another corner there is a small hutch, in which is stored her dishes and food. Over the fireplace is a shelf, on which may be seen a human skdl, a stuffed wolf, and the skin of a snake; and on the skull, with its g1:eat eyes glaring like rubies, is perched an owl-lj ving. But the occupant of the haunted tower is thc principal attraction, and we shall describe ber. : She is about sixty years of age, over six feet in height, and strongly formed. She is 1'0bed in a long gown of green baize, secured at the waist by a broad leathern belt, from which dangles a short nagger. Hw features are fine revealing in their delicate chiseling traces of former beauty. Her eyes are dark and piercing, and her long 'gray hair, falling :Over her shoulders in wild dis order, is interwc;>ven with sea weed, gathered from the rocks. Around her head is twined a laurel wreath, tastefully orna mented with daisies. A harp stands before her, and a.gains! the 'instrument her head rests in an attitude of deep dejection Thus appeared Mad Nancy, as she at in the haunted tower listening to the waves as they dashed on the distant beach, After remaining thus for half an hour, she slowly raised her head, and indu).ge d in the following soliloquy: "They are rising again to battle for Liberty, heaven's Mst gift to earth-born man. Erin's brave sons have borne sorrow and suffering; their wives and children are starving; tlfore is no work from their haughty pppressors; the cruel agents turn them 'from their little cabins ; they tear them down, and leave the aged to perish by the roadside, without a roof to shelter their defenceless heads; desolation the path of the oppressor. Mfi.ny tly for refuge to that glorious Land

PAGE 13

18 beyond. the sea, where there is work and bread for. ail, but those who cannot go must starve. I "Mary, Mother! how long must this continue? The Shamrock is -trodden in the dust ,by the British _Lion; the harp strings are broken; we a bound with slavery!s galling chains ; our prayers for work are unheeded ; our moans for bread are scorned ; our oppressors gloat over the misery they have wrought; and yet England's Sovereign is a woman ; a Christian woman called by some; but she hates our race, her heart is adamant. "Even her own p e ople are oppressed, for every day, every Wi>ek, every month, and every year, thousands of starving factory hands fly to America. because they cannot toil from sunrise till nine at ni_qhtfor eight cents. S;hame ! that every royal child shouJd have a. host I of titles ; T!.nd for each title receive enough of gold to feed the poor with bread, to clothe the ragged, to, warm the freezing wretches who perish at their doors. But a great barrier is erected between the nobility nd the people; the aristocrats fear it may be broken down, for if the people had th eir rights...:__if they had equal power-the nobles would be crushed ; England would boast no haughty sovereign; the land :would be under republican rule; there would be work and bread for all, even as there is in Wash ingtqn's land, to which we fiy for refuge. "There are brave hearts among Erin's sons, and if they would hide all religious animosity, if they would unite in." brotherly love to battle for Erin's rights, our lovely isle might take her place among other nations of the earth, and our noble Emmett's epitaph be For a moment she paused, then, after playing a wild prelude on the harp, in a voice of entrancing sweetness, she. l&Ilg the following SONG. Erin ma.vourneen island of sorrow. .Jn sadness thy. daughters are weeping for thee: The Shamrock po life the eunsine can botrqw,. n llilnn <1ti tlie 14n
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Our fathers and sons are arming for battle, Our lovers brothers to aid them now tty, Protect them great God when the cannons shall rattle, They go for their country, to conquer or die Erin mavourneen island of sorro w Once thou wert mighty noble pond free; Thy daughters were fair, thy sons were all brave, No nation on earth then was greater than thee: Rise from thy sorrow i.n beauty and splendor, Wave thy ' Green Sunburst defiant on higlt ; / Sons of the South, sons of the Northland, Gira on your swords-conquer or die. The old woman's voiCe rose loud and shrill, and the last words echoed throu g h the old castle s deserted balls, sound. ing high above the wi. nd that wailed around the tower The notes of her harp died away entranciilgly, soundin g like the whisp!lred farewell of some loved one who is leaving us alone f9rever. CH'A.PTER II. THB ll'lSH!ra!&AN-THB :FISHERMAN S DAUGHTER-THE AGENT _:THB SPY. Before a cabin of larger dimensions than any of its neigh bors near sunset, a fisherman sat mending bis nets He was about forty years of age ; rather b e low the aver age height of his countrymen ; strong as a lion; and uncom monly handsome both fu form and feature His cheeks were rosy with health ; his chin was dimpled ; bis mouth was small; his eyes were blue ; and bis forehead massive . The mouth showed firmness ; the eyes foresight ; the fore head thought. He was dressed in white duck pants, red woollen shirt, and on bis curly head wa1rjauntily p e rcged a sailor's hat, ,.tell wit1l !' lon1i ribl>on1 that ftqttered in the br.oze.

PAGE 15

MA. D NANOY. 15 H e seemed in no hurry with his work, though his nets were not half mended, and the sun was sinking behind st. AnthonJl's Nose. He smoked his pipe lazily, and from time to time paused between two long whiffs and ran his gaze along the white beach, gazing not at the huts of his poorer neighbors nor at the Osp rey' s Nest, which a party -of the "quality" were bathing, but far beyond, to where a road led into the back country. While he was thus occupied, a young girl '&bout sixteen years of age came to the open door, and watched him in silence. She was one of Erin's loveliest daughters, with fairy form, with haunting face, with witching eyes, and a luxuriant mass of raven hair, that hung in dancing curls around a spotless brow. Her dress was s imple, as belittecl her station, but her b eaut y eclipsed the humble garb. Will be come to-night?" she at length asked, in a rich, music al voice. Divil a know I know, an' divil a ha.'porth I'd care, if it wasn't fur dbe poor chratures who havn't dhe rint for him," answered the man, without turning his head. "Sure be can't expect any money from the tenants when they ha.vn't had a day's work to earn it. Why, father, Lord Banker given any man work since the first Fenian was arrested, and some of his tenants are starving." A scowl contracted the ma.n's brow. "Dha.t's dhe way wid dhem all, dear-iv'ry land-owned them; an' if dhere had been work, 'if dhere had been bread fur dhim dha.t's sta.rvin', dhere wouldn't have been any Feni&ns dhis day in Ireland. Dhere's English landlords ; dhere's l'lcotch landlords ; an' dhere's Irish landlords: but dhere's no difference be tween dhem. Dhey are all sthrivin' to crush dheir poor tenant&, in iv'ry po ss ible way . "First, dhey give dhem work, an' fwhat dhe poor chra tures make is torn fhrom dhem by taxes.. Dhen comes a bad fur i..'iie' crops-dhey have nayther food nor rinl landlorda 4l1il,ID out en roadside, a

PAGE 16

16 MAD N -AN CY. etha.rve an' die-dheir cabins are torn down, an' dhlm dhat can get to Ameriky fares well, thank God! but dhim who can't"-He paused, and a heavy sigh struggled up from his broad breast as fearful memorie!\ thronged before his mental vision. 1 Holy mother! but it's maddenin' whin wan thinks 'iv our wrongs; an' I many times wondher fwhy God .s it at all." "We can't_ understand any thing God does, and we shouldn't be trying to when it's impossible. The time may come :when Ireland will be free-i( not, the poor shall be rich in the kingdom of heaven, and there our oppressors shall receive everlasting punishment," said the fair girl. "D-n dhem, dhey shall be punis hed in dhis world!" ex claimed the fisherman, savagely, "an' dhe hour is near at hand whin millions of slaves will t'row off dhe gallin'g yoke of oppression, rfnd asundher dhe chains of shlavery, an' dhrive dheir inemies fhlyin' fhrom ould Erin's soil! "WhiE Ameriky frees. nagur shlaves, it's time ould John Bull freed bees/white slaves, I'm thinkin'. "Tare an' ages I dhe candle-'atin' Rooshians have freed dheir serfs, an' it's time ourselves ought to enjoy liberty. If we can't be given our rights, bedad we must fight like other mill an' other nations. "Blood an' ouns I an Irishman mustn't be behind serfs an' nagurs." The girl about t-0 laugh at her father's remark, but the fisherman suddenly dre w something from his breast and held it aloft, exclaiming, proudly: "D'ye know fwhat dhat is?" Her cheeks paled, for the article flashed in the declining light, and she knew at once w4at it was. "It's an Irish pike-head, with axe and hook attached," she replied. "Saints defend us from harm! Where did you get it ?" "I made it, acushla, an' more dban a hundhred besidesenough to supply all Banker's whin Gur chief gives u11 dhe ordher to rise. If ould John Bull had a prod of dhla betune dhe ribs, divil anudher pound o' beef he'd

PAGE 17

ll.lD N ANOY. l'T Me, or eorra anud her mug o' ale wud he down heea t'roat." "You Nake pikes? Father, T never knew this beforeand shouh .. any person betray you, your li.fe would be taken by Dirkem'a dragoonR, who : are scouring the country in every arresting those who are suspected, and uribing men to givi 1 them information. Give me the pike, for 'it may be found in your possession." She held out her hand, but he drew back the pike and thrust it in his bosom., "No, no, Nell, you can't have dhat," he said, "fur I _must put a handle fu it, an' be rheady fur dhe row night." "My God! have you been mad enough to join the Fenlans? Ob, -what will become of me if you are imprisoned -or killed? Who would protect your own Nell then? Throw away that horrid weapon, and leave the misguided band you have joined! When aid arrives from America, when our chief and bis take the field, then it will be time enough to go-but wait and see, for my sake-oh, father, do?" "I'm bound by an oath, an' if I bhreak dhat oath dihe Fani ans'll murdher me. Say no more, fur yondher comes dhe agent bees thievin' gang. Go inside, dear." twilight shadows were fast deepening. The sur rounding objects were growing somewhat indistinct ; the saucy craft still rocked gently on the waters; the old salt still sat on tho deck smoking; the bathers werll sttting on. the veranda before the Osprey's N est, listening to an antede luvian harpsichord played by some. ameteur in the parlor; the peasants and fishermeb. were lounging about the but doors, cursing their oppressors; and old Ocean's waves thundered on the sandy beach its unceasing anthem to ages past. Such was the scene that greeted the eyes of Joe Dasher, Lord Banker's agent and tax gatherer, as he rode along the beach, followed by four servants in shining livery. '!Jiey were all mounted and armed ; .for the brutal agent was bated ..

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18 HAD NANOY, by the tenantry-not without cause-as our reader will soon see. The poor were exp e cting him, and when he came in sight every brow was cloud e d every heart was sad The schoundrel,"'' muttered an old inan, who was fee ding a mule b e side his cabin, "I'd like to dhrive bul lets through hees skull, dhe unfe e lin' brute!" "We'll be turned out dhis ni ght, muttered a cripple, as he hobbled into another cabin, to tell them the agent had ar riv e d from --. Wirra, wirra, b a by dear," a pale woman, clasping her wailing infant to her breast, who s e foun t w a s dry in w ant of food, "fwhere will I rest my head this night?!' God's holy will be done I I have but a few hours to live; dhe death-pain is gnawin' at me old heart, an' maybe he'll I'av e me to die in my bed. Ax him," gasped old Patsy Oloony, as his trembling Wife bathed his burning brow. These, and similar expressions were uttered in every cabin, while children cowered iti dark corners, 9,ree.diog the sound of the agent's voice. Poverty reigned in every cabin-for there had been tto work in months. The land-owners feared the Fenian insur rectiov, and took immediate measures to weaken the ir poor t e nants by; starving them; and in no better manner could the y have done it than by d e priviog them of every occupation that gave them bread. Lord Banker's tenants laughed. "We can live on the fis h In Kilkieran Bay till our chief ordhers us out," th e y cri ed, but our chief didn't "ordher ,,. them out, and when the quarter's rent was due they found out "fish wouldn t p a y tt.,, Lord Banker's agent rode by the bathing-house in gallant 11tyle, and three or four gentlemen of questionable character recog \ll zed him by a nod. The door of the nearest cabjn was open, and in an instant he drew rein before it, nearly ridin g over the humble proprL etor, who was forth to l_Wn,. hat in "Jem Noonall

PAGE 19

MAD 19 u Yis, yer honor." "Hand out a quarter's rent!" "Sure, sir, Lord Banker knows I havn't wan ha'penny hi dhe world, an',, __ Shut up thundered the agent. "To-morrow we':t drive away your mule and pig. After that we shall burn the shant y ; therefore you had best find shelter before niy men come. No praying to me l Go to Father Darcy, you ragged Fenian! Forward, men!" Cabin after cabin they visited, and every1tenant receivel 1:1otice to for among them all not one had the money ; and Lord Banker had given orders to eject every: one, knowing they had on place to lay their heads. Long b e fore the agent's work wae ended lie was in a furious rage, strikiog men, women, and children with hie riding-whip . The lw.tcabin he visited was old Clooney's, and the poor man was near death. His wife came to the door, her hands upraised, her hair disheveled, and alarm d e picted in every feature. "Rent!" was the brutal salutation that the agent growled, as she began to explain how matters stood within. "Me ould man is tlyin' wid dhc fever, an' fur God's sake let his sowl depart in peace," she pleaded, in agonizing accents, "He is always dying, and the devil hasn't got him yet. The money I must have; and if you don't shell out, down goes your shanty. I'll make an example of one blasted 1 Fenian to strike terror into their hearts. Fork over from your old stocking where the money is !towed to buy pikes Dasher's attendants laughed. They were afraid of him, therefore they grinned il.t everythi.Dg he said, to please him. The suff e rer heard their conversation, and groaned aloud. In hie anxi ety to speak to the brutal agent he endeavored to raise, but his strength failed him, and he fell prostrate on the floor, while his old wife was clinging to Dasher's stirrups, begging them to leave them until the old man died. Fwhat's dhat? Wirra, wirra, wirra l Mary, Mother, but he's ),yin' dead on dll
PAGE 20

210 MA.D NA.NOY. ture, and rushing into the cabin, she threw herseh prostrate on the floor beside him, moaning in accents : "Oh! Patsey, Patsey, darlint, have ye gone fhrom me forever? Spake wanst more! Take me hand in yer own again! "Wan luk fhrom yer lovin' eyes, wan kiss fbi-om yer lips, before angels bear ye away!" There came no answer to this mournful wail. The old man lay motionless, with the ljght of an expiring candle falling on his attenuated form and ghastly features. She grasped his hand. It gave back a feeble pressure, and, wi t h the l ast death-struggle he arose to a sitting posture, his eyes glaring fl ightfully in their hollow sockets. Tenderly, passionately1 he kissed the aged dame who had shared Life's joys and sorrows with him for thirty years, then throwing his arms wildly aloft, he sqouted in frenzied tones: "Down wid dhe tyrant! Ireland an' Llberty Ould Ire-land forever!'' .This was all he said. This was the last struggle of dying humanity ; then came the d e ath-rattle; a.ttd the weary spu:it burst the Oppressor's chain, and soared away to the "Better Land," the Land of Eternal Liberty, the Land of Light, Love, and Joy; where no one starves, and the Bread of Life is free to all. .. ' Thou8ands of suet scenes are enacte d every day, and thou sands annually perish in the sight .of plenty, unallowed to gather the crumbs that fall from the rich man's table; starving, while feasts> of choice viands deck "Dhe Masthers" board, and gentlemen's hounds eat the food the peasants would toil for Joe Dasher beard Old Clooney's last words, and saw him die. He had dismounted, and stood in the doorway, with the bridle ,of his horse over his arm. 1 Ohe Fenian less," he exclaimed, when the old man fell backward, and in a moment he was in the saddle. Dismount, and throw everything that contains on the roa
PAGE 21

.. MAD NA1'tot. what they may expect to-morrow. }Iave no fear, for these starving dare not harm you. '' Dirkem and twenty dragoohs are at the Osprey's Nest, ready to massacre the first man among them who dare raise his head like an honest man. Fire away! and you will find me at Emmett Clare's cotta ge, t a iking with his pretty daugh ter, Nell. Refreshments will await you." Joe Dasher rode away, and a vol\ey of curses followed him from the peasants who had gathered near in awestruck groups to witness this last act of brutality. \ His orders were strictly obeyed; the few articles of fur niture were dashed out and broken ; the corpse was borne away by four rude peasants, who begged the privilege; anJ ns the weeping woman followed her husband's remains to a nei g hboring cabin, the fire from her own rude hut cast a Juri\l, glare on the sandy beach, revealing a party of dra goons who in search of suspected Fenians. As Joe Dasher approached the fisherman's cottage, a dark figure bounded suddenly forth from behind a rock, and swinging, a heavy bludgeon high in air, he knocked the horse man senseless from the saddle; then leaping on the terrified steed, he dashed away like the wind. The fisherman and his daughter saw what occurred from the cottage door. I've settled him for this night, and I've captured a fast horse for our chief," shouted the man, as he rode past. "Farewell, Emmett Clare! Good bye, Nell! If. any one inquires who leveled Joe Dasher, tell them it was the Fenian Spy!" . A loud laugh rang out, and the fighre vanished in the gloom. . "Poor Neil! He is too rash, too daring, and I'm afraid Dirkem's dra.g,ons will capture him in some of his mad adventures," exclaimed Nell Ola.re. Capture dhe divil, or a witch on a broomstick," rep11ed her father. "Begarra, I shoufdnt be surphrised to hear dbat himself an' Stephens war both in London, raisin' mis chief undher thp queen's nose qofore long. "But 10 isidei 4arlln' 1 wblle l iiJfonr. iniD be)

PAGE 22

' l yin' fur dead on dhe beach. about your Spby lover." So saying, Emmett Clare cabin. NAN01'. In wid ye, an' don't be frettin' hastened toward the burning CHAPTER III. LORD BANKRR-THR LADY AGNES O'IURA.-THll: l'RNlllf SPY.:._A DARING DEED. Lord Banker was a young man, and the owner of a splen. did estate, situated a few miles from Kilkieran Bay His parents were dead, and having neither brother nor sis ter to share his possessions, his wealth far exceeded that of any landed proprietor in that section qf c6untrY Adjoin ing his lands was the O'Hara Manor, owned by Brian Dhu O'Hara, "the proudest Irish gentleman," as he himself said, in all Ireland Lord Banker was paying court to the Lady Agnes O'Hara, the prO\ld gentleman's only child, and it was reported among the knowing ones that they were soon to be wedded On the evening on which.Joe Dasher was knocked sense less from his horse, Lord Banker and his betrothed were strolling in O'Hara's grand old park, talking the .same soft nothing that all lovers talk once in life, be their station high o r low Far back from the roadside stood the monkish mansion, with turrets and towers, wings and quadrangles, that made it resemble an old, Elizabethian castle. In front was thll park, with its giant trees, a century old, its winding walks ; its graveled drive, its velvet turf, o'er which the youthful pair walked with unheard footstep,. startling sometimes a hare, while scores of deer gazed fearlessly at them as they passed, and gaudy-plumaged birds envied the changing colors of Lady Agnes' silken robe . Lord Banker had passed a pleasant afternoon, and h e was abo!Jt t o 11tart for auxlQ\18 te hear his agen.t's rep ort. .

PAGE 23

MAD NANGY. 23 The fair girl walked with him to the park gates, whtlre a stable-boy was waiting with his horse. "Anything new about the Fenians ?" asked Agnes, aa they strolled leisurely along. "Nothing to alarm us. We hear _of meetings and drills at midni ght in mountainous districts, aid from America, to! gether with many other incredible tales, ancl there it ends. Some few arres \ s have be e n made, and the government spies are everywhere vig ilant, gaining information from traitorous Fenians ill heir very midst. But there are two men I would like to see hung, for two more daring devils never lived." "And who a.re these men you hate so much?" "One is the far-famed Centre, and the other is Neil Con nor, the Fenian Spy, whose daring adventures -a.re the theme of every tongue." I admire him his daring," said the Lady Agnes and where is he now?" "That is a hard question to answer ; but he was last seen ln Ougbterard, peddling fian nel. He assumes many dis guises, is never long in one place. I would give a hun dred pounds to see him." "1'11 take the money, my lord, for here I am!" exclrumed a hoarse voice. The Lady Agnes screamed, and Lord Banker turned quicklya.bout, placing himself before his be.trothed. There in the moonlight, about fiv e paces distant, stood an. old man with long gray hair, wearing a long gray cloak, that completely form. Both arms were extended, and both hands held a horseman's pistol presented. Lord Banker was astouhded at the man's daring, and for a moment he stood like a stat1;1e, motionless, speechless. I am in something of a hurry ; take a good look at me ; then I'll accept your purse and depart," said the Spy. "If I was armed you :wouldn't escape : I would blow your brains out," fiercely exclaimeCI the enraged gentleman. "I am waiting ft>r the money. 1f you do not produce U while I am counting teu, I'll blow your brains out. "- (

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24 MAD NA.NOY. "Cunies. on you! take my purse but you shall swing for this,'-' hissed Lord Banker, as he extend ed a net-work bag, well filled with gold, at arm's length. The Spy grasped it, weighed it a. moment in his hand, and then thrust it into a pouch under his l eft arm. "You havt. seen me, and you have paid dear for the sight. Interfere with any of my future movements, and you will lose your life. Remember, I hav;e warned you. "And now my lord, good evening! You have a fine horse at the gates, and as I have a long journey before }Ile, while you have only a short distance to go, I mu s t have the animai. "If! never return the beast, send i n your bill to Congress, when the Fenian Republic is established, and it'll be paid." A fearful oath broke from the gentleman's pallid lips and he started toward the gates to save bis favorite racer; but the Spy bounded after him, .and with one tremendous blow, felled him to the earth, then hastening out at the great gates, he tripped up the stable boy, mounted Lord Banker's horse, '\Ild rode away. "A good haul for the Fenian Treasury,.and two good aorses for our officers," exclaimed the gallant Spy, as he gave be racer free rein. "If Old Ireland's in chains, I'm a free man at least. Tear ahead, racer! for a better man than Lord Banker is in the sad dle now. Tear a.head?" 011-ward he rode until he reached a black comn"ion, and turning aside from the main road, he sped across the level a cabin appeared in siiht, the only humb/4 hab1tat1on .for miles around. This he soon reached, and a man met him at the door. "Where is the other bim1e ?" inquir ed the Spy. "Tied in the thicket at the cros s roads, sur." Very well ; I'll take the animal along with me. If any. one inquires whether .I passed this way or not, tell yea. Good night, Andy?" "Good night, sur." Again the Spy sped onward, and the man entered the cabin, muttering: "Well, well, dhaiNeil Conaor beata ould boy fur

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MAD NA.NOY. impudence an darln' To think iv him taki,ti' dhe agent's horse on Kilkieran beach, an' ridin' off wid Lord Banker s racer, Black Bess, under hees very nose, an' all dhe same night, too. Ha, ha, ha! I shouldn't be wan bit surprised if he tuk dhe chrown from dhe Quane's bead when all dhe Parli'ment war sittin' 'round h er! God protect him, anyhow, an' dhe saints betune him an' harm fwherever he goes." Andy Martin the door, and laid -down on his bed of rushes to sleep, while a gaunt wolf-dog watched beside him. Before on the following an advertisement was in the country papers, in which was offered a large reward for the Fenian Spy, dead or alive. Mounted men rode through every neighboring tow:_n and village, posting large bills in every conspicuous place, de scribing the appearance of Neil Con. nor, and officers were on his track in every direction. Lord Banker's tenants were not ejected; for the gen leman feared to exasperate them too much after what had occurred -he feared they might take his life. Joe Dasher wal,k:.ed nursing a sore head, and as be walked, he wished all Fenians were in a place we will not name. Old Clooney was buried, and menacing scowls were given to the richly-attired drngoons who rode .up and witnessed the interment. CHAPTER IV. THB l!ECRET .lllEETING-THE TWO INTRUDERS-" OLD IRELAND .A.ND LIBERTY." It was midnight, and a small band of Fenian patriots had met together in an underground chamber beneath O'Hara's ruined castle. The apartment was about feet long, and forty feet wide; the roof was lofty ; but the floor and walls, built of rou g h brown stone, was wet with the damvness that continually accumulated.

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!6 KAD NANO"!". This chamber had been used to. confine prisoners in when the old Il'ish kings fought among themselves, and tlie O'Hara's wore purple and crimson ; when Erin was than her sister isle, whose chains she now clanks in s e rvile bondage. An iron laaip, that was suspended by a chain from the ceiling, in the centre of the chamber, gave a dim light, thai make surrounding objects appear like phantoms in .Plack. B e neath the lamp stood a sm'all table, covered with green baiz e-spread out on the table was a iattei:ed Irish be s ide it the g lorious banner of Columbia-the stars and strip es, with the stars undi v ided. A harp with broken strings was fastened upright in the middle, an(j around the harp was twined a rus ty chain Perched on the harp was a carved eagle, holding in its beak a bunch of wither e d shamrock. At the head of the table sat Mad Nancy, writing rapidly, her cloak wrapped closely about her form, and one lock of gray lvlir trailing on the paper. The walls were adorned with pikes, some fresh 1 and bright, as though they were just made, others rusty, showing they had been on the damp wall a long time. Two large chests stood in one corner, but what they con tained the author could not tell, without revealing the "grand secret" of the "Brotherhood." Time will show their con tents, and the natio n s w i ll b e startl ed. "Good. names, and true," murmureq Mad Nancy, as she folded the paper on which she had been writing, and hid ii beneath her mantle. Good names, and true ; men who are willing to peril life and fortune with us--men who will noi flinch from danger when it comes." There was a rumbling sound that echoed strangely in the Yaulted chamber; a stone moved slowly out from the solid masonry, and six men entered, one after the other, withot speaking. In a few moments others followed, by twos, threes, and singly, until twenty-four stood in the apartment, conversing in whispers. "Bettw late the. never !", exclaimed a manly voice, and a '

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MAD NANO\'. 27 handsome man,. wearing the jaunty garb of a sailor, leaped through the aperture, closing it behind him. He bowed to the men standing by, and having shaken hands with Mad Nancy, he drew a stool from under the table, threw his tar paulin on the flags, and said : "I have but flve minutes to stay, for three fugitives from Dublin are on the coast near Beetle Inlet, closely pursued by English bloodhounds. I must sail for that point and rescue them before they are captured." . Who gave you information?" inquired Nancy. "Neil Connor, the Spy. I met him while on my way hither, and I had a h1larty laugh at his appearance." Anything new; Captain ?" asked one of the bystanders. The Captain ran bis eye over the faces of the men rap idly, and after saying, "All right," he answered the que11tion. "New? Something entirely new. The Spy was dress e d in Lord Banker's livery "--"See that!" "An' tM fun of it was, he carried a roll of placards under his aim, which he posted everywhere among his enemies, offering a reward for his own arrest." "Hurra.h., fur -Neil!" exclaimed a stout fellow, had lliltened with mouth agape while the Qaptain was talking. "Begarra, he's dhe lad," chimed in another. "Ye may well say dhat," added Fenian No. S "He even visited the Osprey's Nest, and denounced the Fenians in strong language while tacking up a placard in, a room full of gentlemen, besides four of Dirkem's dragoons." A murmur of admiration arose, but it was checked when the Captain drew a paper from his pocket, and read aloud : ''Important News from America-Continued Success of the Fenians-O'Mahony Address es a Tremendous Gathering -Meetings Held by the Brotherhood in Every State-Money Subscribed by all Classes-Millions in the Fenian Treasury -Millions More Flowing in Like Water-Ladies Pawning all Valuable Jewelry and Diamonds-Laborers Giving their Last Doile.r to Ai
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lt.l.b 1tA1tOf Fleet Nearly Ready for Sea.-Ca.na.da. Sure oo be '!'a.ken by Sweeny by Pa.trick's Da.y...._Terror Throughout Engla.nd-John 13ull Qua.king with Fear." How eagerly they listened to the "news," those hardy, honest men; a.nd their bosoms heaved, their cheekli glowed, their eyes flashed in anticipation 'of the comi)lg conflict, that was to set them free. Afar off, in imagination, they beheld the field of bloody strife, a.nd they longed to be there. When Captain Moran finished reading, each ma.n pa.id in the small sum he collected, gave him valuable informa tion, a.nd mentioned the names of several friends who wished to join the Brotherhood. "Bring them with you to our next meeting, aod they shall be sworn. We meet on Thursday, a.t midnight, in the cave behind St. Anthony's Nose. No stranger can enter t his plr.ce. I must leave you now; but he faithful, vigilant, a.nd active until we meet again "Faithful, vigilant, a.nd active," repeated a deep, sepul chral voice, that came from beneath them. Mad Nancy bounded to her feet, and drew two pistols frqm under her cloak. Captain Moran followed her example, producing two similar weapons. The Fenian fell back a.' pace, as though a bomb had exploded in their midst, and every eye was fixed upon the floor, from under which the-strange mice sounded. "We have been betrayed!" exclaimed Mad Nancy. "Stand firm, and we will sell our lives dearly," said the Ca.ptain. "Dearly when the hour for action comes," exclaimed the voice again. "Don't fire on poor Neil Connor,'' cried another voice, and a large flag in the floor moved from its place, revealing a dark cavity, through which the air rushed, cold a.nd chill.' While the Fenians were spell-bound with astonishment, the Spy sprang nimbly hito their presence, followed by an other with gray hair, gray whiskers; tattered 1arb, bearing '1 WI' a pedlar'i .

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M:AD NA.NOY, "Whom have we here-have you forgotteA our rules, Neil?" asked Captain Moran, somewhat sharply. "I forget nothing, sir. This gentleman is a good and true Fenian laughingly replied the Spy. Please introduce yourself, my frie nd." The stranger threw aside his battered hat, his whisker1, and bis 'wig,. and bowed low. The re was no mistaking that fine form, that head \Vhich llE>eme d cast in bronze, that high foreabed, and those piercing eyes, that s e emed to transfix them with their gaze. For a moment tlie assembled Fenians him in spell-bound amazem ent; then the Irish heart burst forth in a wild, ring ing hurrah. Ould Ireland, Stephens, and Liberty!" was the cry Hurrrah hurrah! hurrah!" The wall of the gloomy cavern echoed back the but at a signal from him they be d ame silent. And then they crowded about him, shaking and kissing his hand; dancing for joy ; manifesting their delight in different ways, until tpe man's heart was too full for utterance. and he turned away and wept. Yes, he wept While standing amid that small band of faithful adherents, who had solemnly sworn io peril their lives for their country's freedom. It was a touching scene, and one to be remembered, whether 1 their cause pro s per or fail . But the chief's time was precious. He was paying a flying visit to every county Jn Ireland, and he did not forget tbe humbl e st of his adherents. He had matwed his plans in Dublin, amid his enemies, and walked boldly through the streets in disgui.Se, often conv e rs ing with the officers who were on his track ;' often mingling in their company, and through every danger lie escaped. Was there not some Power that guided and guarded him in his wand e rings? Verily, we know it ; for his many per ilous adventures, bis numberless hair-breadth escapes were He addressed the little band briefly, and then they sepa.rated; Steph"tns, Captain and tb.e Spy_ going toward-

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80 MAD N ANOT. the coast, while the others dispersed in different directions to their homes. Mad Nancy was the last to leave. She extinguished the light, and sought the old tower, murmuring, as she crossed the old courtyard, wh e re ruin and desolation reigned: "Qld Ireland and Liberty!" CHAP'l;ER V. W.A.YLAID-A DESPERATE STRUGGLE-ANDY MARTIN .A.BD THE DOG SHAMROCK." Under
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11lAD NANOY. 81 endeavored to cultivate the bap-en waste, that under proper supervision, would have yielaed bountiful : crops after two years' care. A gentleman who was once tranlling through tb,at part ot the country, asked a pcasat\t sitting by the roadside, if lhey ever raised anything on that waste land ? "Aye, indade we do, sur." "What?" "Well," replied the ragged wayfarer, as he removed a 1tumpy pipe from his mouth, and gazed up at the horseman from under the tattered rim of his battered hat: "We ginerally raise dhe divil." The American rode on, afler tossing the man a silver coin, pe1 fectly satisfied that his answer was true. Having rested, the Spy started across the moor; but he had not gone many paces ere he was startled by a stealthy footstep behind him, and turning, he beheld four men approaching rapidly. One was in advance of the rest, armed with a heavy club, or bludgeon. When the ruffian saw that he was discovered, he raised his clul), and rushed at the Spy, determined that he should not escape. Neil Connor, who was brave as a lion, was resolved to give them battle. He was used to danger, and many a time he had been in a tighter fix than that. in the queen's name!" shouted the ruffian, and his companions hastened forward to aid him. "Fool I" retorted the Spy, contemptuously, and quicker than thought he drew a pistol from his breast and leveled it. There was a ringing report-the villain threw up both arms-the club dropped from his grasp-and he ttlll heavily on the ground. With a yell of rage the other three rushed forward to avenge their comrade, and the Spy saw that they were all armed alike. "Surrender!" cried one. "Beat his brains ot !" yelled another. "Don't harm hinl, for we were ordered to take him alive!" 1ereamed the hindmost. "Back, back, I liay I The next man who approach ell

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82 MAD NA.NOT. shall die!" exclaimed Neil, and another pistol was pointed at the advancing foe. 1 They heeded not his warning, and again he fired, drop ping another assailant. He had barely time to put himself in an attitude of defence when the foe was upon him. They aimed ruiious blows at him, but by turning and dodging with wonderful l!.gility, he managed" to save his head, until an unlcky stroke rendered bis left IU"lll pow e r less. The tide of baitle was turned against him, and he would doubtless have been captured, for his adv e rsari e s were strong men, incited to bravery by the vron1ise f a large reward-but aid was ct hanci. A wild "halloo sounded near, and the next moment a man bounded forward, leveling one ruffian with his fist. Behind him came a gaunt wolf-dog, and the faithful anim a l sprang like a tiger upon the last foe, b-qrying hi.I! teeth in the man's throat, and bearing him heavily to the earth. "Hurroo !" shouted the new-comer. "Ould Ireland for ever I Seize him I Hould him, me boy! Rise up, some o' yese, an' fight me, ye cowardly divils, fur I'm ghrowin' rusty fur dhe want iv use. Ould Ireland, Fa.nianism, an' Liberty forever How are ye, me fri'nd ? l' he added, turning to Nell. For God's sake, save that man I The dog is killing him I" shouted the Spy. Andy Martin turned and dragged Shamrock frolll the prostrate wretch-his throat was fearfully la.cerated, and the savage animal's muzzle was dripping with blood Shamrock growled and endeavored to break loose, but a blow ci.lmed his rage, and then the twe turned to ex the wounded. They were startled by a party ot mounted dragoons, who were seen a.far off, and the ex claimed: ,.., "We must run for our lives!" "Come on dbiti.,'' said Andy, "an' as .my .:!)bin isn't safe lua.rthers, we'll cut across dhe counthry to Mad Nancy's." A frum the ad vancing dragoons announced that they.-. I (

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' JlAD NANOT. 8S ere discovered, a.nd both set off at full speed a.cross the barren moor. The horsemen gave pursuit, but the fieet-footed fugitives gained the bogs beyond the plain and escaped through them by a well-known route to the mountainous country ing on the wave-washed coast. Travei-soiled and weary, they reached the ruined castle ai l!Dnrise, and M d Nancy them an humble m eal while the Spy related bis adventure. After satisfying the demands of hunger, they lay down to sleep on the bed of rushes, while Nancy went forth to bear the gossip among the "quality, who bathed at an early hour. She was attired in same garb worn "!'hen intro duced to oil!' roaclers, and in a green bag she carried her harp. We Will leave her on the way, with the gay laughter ot the bathers floating on the bi:eeze as she wandered leisurely along the pebbly shore. VL IOB DAS:imB Mf-KES .&. DEOLARATION 01' LOVE-Nl:LL'8. REJEOTION-DASHER'S THREAT. Nell Clare was returning from the beach that morning. She b,ad accompanied her father .to ibe shore. and watched him launch his light bark on the sparkling waves; watched him as he hoisted the snowy ,sail; watched the boat as it glided over the vast expanse of waters like a thing of life; watched until it disappeared in the distance, fading from her vision until it seemed but a speck on the open bay, far, far away. She had accompanied him thus for many years, kissing his bronzed cheek when he departed, and welcoming him back with smiles when he returned; but she had never thought: He is growing old. The time may come when be will returQ no more

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MAD N ANOY; Youth anttage. \ Yes, she was t1ery beautiful; everybody thought BO; a.H.d why shouldn't Joe Dasher think so, too, as he watcijed htlr tripping over the white sand, where the impress of her fovlt was just visible as he followed her? She was as good as beautiful; she had a pleasant woni for all; and at every sick bed you might be sure to find her; in every cabin her presence was like sunshine; and a muJtt. tude of prayers ascended daily to the throne of grace ttuu God would bless her through life, and eave her in heaven. It is noble to lead such a life! It is happiness to be l:hua loved ty those around us! Joe Dasher her, '\\: e said He had watc!
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)(AD lClNOY. the :fisherman sailed away, and when Nell ntraced her steps toward the cottage, he walked slowly after her. For what? To learn his fate;as many a lover has done before him; and many more will do while the world stands. He had kJiown Emmett Clare aad his daughter five years, nd Nell had coqu etted with him until she learned his true character, then she despised .bim. He had dressed himself with unusual care. Not a wrinf:le marred the beau t y of his his breechl)s showed well formed limbs ; his high-topped boots, adorned with yellow tassels, shone bri g htly with "Day & Martinis" blacking; his hair was artistically arranged; and he was very preaentable. Ah! I am mistaken . I had forgott'en the blow that lblled him from his horse: A silk handkerchief was bound tightly about his brow, and hid the ugly wound, that gave him an interesti"n.'1 appearance. So he thought himself, and young lovers always like to appear interesting. But another thing I must tell you : he had tliat morning made an important d i scovery; he saw1he fisherman somet hing before he went away, and that something he had in his posession. He. determined make use of lt. What it was, and how he succe e ded you shall soon learn. Before our h e roine entered the cottage she turned to gaze back at the beautiful bay, on whose waters the sunligl\t was f a lling, mak i ng the waves glow with a thousand rainbow tints, and she beheld the agent marching along with pompous air, whistling" God Save the Queen." An angry frAwn clouded her brow. He came up smiling. He raised his hat and bowed. She returned his respectful sal u t a tion coldly, and not him to enter the cottage, ut down on Upturned boat, in full view of the gentlemen who were stroliing on the beach with their families. "Good morning, Nell I" "lUss Clare, if you pleasti, sir." Ha! ha! Miss Clare? Deuced good that, upon. my word. l have come this mor$g to have a little con-

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. MAD NANCY. and I am glad your are not occupied with hold care." I am going to work now; I have a coat to make for Brian McMaimus, who is crippled with the rheumatism, so you may call another time when father is here to entertain you." "Nay, but you must answer two or three questions before I go." ,"Must?" Well, you will." 'rhree questions. Let them be short, and my answen shall be the same, then there will not be much time lost," she saucily. He colored, and bit his lips to conceal his ruge, thinking: ''She carries herself proudly, but I have the power to hum ble her pride." He began the attack boldly, and the abruptness of his question amazed her. -5eating himself on the boat near her, he folded his armS, gazed steadily in her face, and asked : '"Nell Clare, do you love me?" "Love you!" she the words scornfully, and after returning his glance she added: "I would as soon love Sata.i:i." well. Will you be my wife?" "Mr. Dasher, are you mad ?" she exclaimed, rising with an air of offended dignity, her dark eyes flashing, and her cheeks flushed. ''Be your w-ife Rather become your wife I would wed a Hottentot. You hate. been taking too much wine I think." The insult stung him, for he was very proud. His face be came ghastly, and he trembled like an aspen. Had no one been in sight he could have murdered her. There was a lurking ilevil in his eye, and she shrank from him. Mastering his passion, he asked again : "Do you love another ?" "I do; one who is 'uoQle good," she answered, proudly.

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)(.lD N.lNOY. ST "You shall never Jed him!" he hiss ed, savagely, and he, too, arose in his pa s sion. "Hear me, Nell Clair. lloveJ'OU madly, and no man &\an steal you from me. If any rival stands between ine and my love, by the Heaven that ls above me, he die. You must marry me! I will never give you up he cried, and the fair girl shuddered at his anger, shrinking further and furthe:r away as toward her; moving from the cottage, that she might escape him in bis madneBB. ,!i Come no nearer! W puld you harm me? If you ap proach me I will cry for help, and the gentlemen yonder will hear me!" 1 '' Harni you ?" he repeated, ' I wouldn't harm you for the world. Do not fear me; but again I r!lpeat you must b6 n'iy bride, Nell Clare. I can compel you to consent to o ur union." A triumphant smile curled his thin lip as he uttered these words. "Compel me? Begone and insult me no longer, for I will not endure your unmanly ,hre ats. I am mistress of my o\fn heart, and I glve my affection s to whom I choose." She was moving away, and he determined to use hla power. Did you ever s e e before?" he inqired, drawing a pike-head from his breast n For a moment sense and 11trength seemed deserting her ; lhe sta g gered forward and rested her hand on the boat for support while everything faded from her sight . His hour of triumph had come at last. 1 "Where, oh wh ere did you find that?" she gasped. "I found it und e r the door-sill-I saw your father put ft there b e fore he went away this moming-I watched until you accompani e d him to the be ach_:.then I stole from behind yonder r o ck, whe re I was concealed, and took the weapon from its cos y nook. ' 1 ''The s ill s lid e s in and out like the c over of a box, a d it la a cunnin g i nvention tru l y Ha! ha! ''.What w ill yoq qo w ith it? Give it to me! Throw it

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88 MA.D NA.NOY into the water, and let it sink forever from sight," sobbed the frightened girl, clasping her hands appealingly. Ha! ha! I am not such a fool,,, said Joe Dasher, grl.J;ming . "I mean to keep it; it is the sceptre with which I 8hnll rule yo1l, my pretty bird : I wouldn't part with it for all Lord Banker's .. wealth. Now, then, I'll you one more chance, because I don't wish to be mean.....:1 don't wish to take an linfair advantage of the girl I love. Let us have a final settlement, and afterward I shall know what course to pursue." Nellie Clare wept in silence, and Joe Dasher smiled in triumph. "Your father is a Fenian," he said, calmly. "No, no, no!" she sobbed "This concealed pike is sufficient evidence to convict him, send him to prison, transport him, or hang him. If you will solemnly promise by all you hold sacred, by your hope oi' eternal salvation to marry me, you may have the wea pon ; but !.(you refuse, I will march straig t to the Ospre y 's N e st, give the prize to Captain Dirkein,ell him where I found it, and if your father don't swing, call me a liar afterwards "I await ;imur answer. Think well before you decide "Oh, Mr. Dasher, have pity, have mercy, and do not harm my poor father, for he Is all I have to love on earth He is my friend, my protector, my guide, and you will not injure him because I cannot love you,'' moaned Nell Will-you save him ? Will you be my wife?" I "Is there no other alternative? ls your heart adamant? Be manly, and may God bless you." "Will yon be my wife? Remember, I am asking you the last time." 1 For a moment she raised her tearful eyes to heaven and her lips murmured, a8 if In prayer ; then all color pa rterl from her cheeks; a stony caimness overspread her face, and. llhe replied : . Do your worst, heartless villain For the last time I an 11wer-nof" The words were walled out agonizingly, like a despairi ng try/ and tbe heartless villain walked away, chuckling

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.MAD NA.NOY. S9 the mistif3 \e had caused. She watched him until he reached the Osprey's Nest; she saw him pause and speak to it man in uuiforin; and then he entered the refreshment room, whe re c;earils and ices were kept. The storm-cloud of sorrow has cast its dark shadow on i:ny happy home. I warned my dear father and told him it would come to this, but be despised the counsel of his child, ahd now bis enemies will take him from me;. they will con fine him in a loathsome prison, and perhaps --. Oh I no, no no, I cannot thin,k: that ; it is too terrible. Spirit of. my sainted !" she cried, gazing upward at the pure, unclouded sk,y, "watch ove-,: me, and proteci me when he is gone." For many mofueutA 'lbe stood motionless, reviewed what had just occurred, and tb.e'll, overcome with the violence ot contending emotions, she sat down on the door-sill, weeping bitterly. She heard lau_ghter amid the gay throng on b eac h, she heard merry and then all was still. Suddenly the sweE}t notes of a haro floated on the breeze, and a voice of song banished the melauch(\ly thoughts that tortured her. She raised her head, and beheld Nancy sitting on a rock by the shore, surrounded by a cro"lfd of ladies and gel)-fumeu. They seemed tranced by the wild air the was and a holy calm stole over Nell'4 heart yhile she listened to the following SONG. Why art thou wandering Alone on the shore? The wind it blows high, And the wild tempests roar 1 Oh I I am wandering Here by the sea, To watch if my father's Returning tQ me : For the wind it blDws cold, Through the darkness ofnigh'1

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MAD NANOT, Aud I'm lingering here Since the daw.qing qflighl t' Gazipg i rough tears O'er the fast driving sea; To. wat,cp if my father's ' Returning to me, Last night when my father Went forth on the deep, t To my cottage returning, I laid down to sleep ; But while the calm Of sweet sleep came to me, The voice of the tempest Was waking the sea : I thought in a dream, ''twaa my father that spoke a And oh l 'mid the wild Raging storm I awof'e; But the father I loved W'as afar on the sea; Oh why in my dream Called my' father to me f ' Lonely I look through The fast driving gale, Hopeless I see What Hope fancies a sail; B .ut 1'tis only the wilfg Of the sea-gull b1, And my heart it sinks low At the bird's wailing cry:' For the gale must blow hard When the gull comes on sh6re1 And oh if the fisherman's Bark floats no more; Kind angels guard him Where' er 1he rhay be l Ohl bring my' father In safety to nnS: ( l

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MAD N&Nor. il The m elody 'Of the harp-strings died away entr?-ncingly', and as a bevy of maidens gathered about a young lady who wished to have her fortune tc;>ld, Nell forgot her sorrows and drew near to listen. CHAPTE;R vn M'QU,LIGAN'S INN-A FENUN JUBILEl!:-TIIB ARREsT; On the coast, about a mile from Kilkieran Bay, stp,nds a small inn, where the "Oughterard mail coach" halts to chl!nge horses. This inn was kept by wan Misther McGilligan, and it if! needless to say, the inn kept him. McGilligan :was a landlord in a small way, renting a farm from an "absentee Marquis," and whether the inn was patronized or not, the annual produce of his land enabled him to live in comfort On the night following the events related in the chap ter, a party of Irish blades" assembled at the inn to have a dance The re was a dozen hardy fellows, and man was a Fenian The floor was cl eare d and sanded ; a piper had come down from the mountains; there was whisky in apunaancc; and they were all in high spirits. The night came on dark and stormy ; the thunder bellowed hoars ely; the lightning gleams. were dazzling ; the rain f ell in torrents; the wind howled around the inn like an infuri ated demon ; aind the surge dashed against the bleak coast with an incessant roar; but the little party heeded not the tempe st safely sheltered from its pitiless wrath Blind Burke, the piper, played his liveliest "chunes," and the thumping ciatter of the "jiggers" feet might have waked the "se. ven sleepers." "Phlay us the Black-Haired Girl Give us Behind the Bush in the G a rden," shouted a red-headed fellow, throwing otr hi s hat and ra gge d coat. "Or Lively Tom, the yelled another, AS he fasned up his breeches with a pin. "Fire away all iv yees, fur here's Plftldy s Rambles, wid

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MAD NA.NOY. var'ashuna," chimed in the piper; and g1vmg his bags a squeeze, he began playing as though life depended on the quickness of time, while every man "shoqk his tro.tters" with amazfug rapidity. '.!'he piper got excited ; he rocked his body to and fro ; he rolled his sightless eyeballs; be threw his head backward and forward ; he worked his elbow with spiteful jerks ; hit fingers danced. in merry mazes ; his left foot beat tum, tum, tum, on the floor; and all the while a sm an terrier was tugging at the tail of his coat "unknownst music grew livelier; and the sbuffiing of feet on the sanded floor sounded like the approa c h of a freight tr&in with two engines attached. Olwok-a chook a-clwok R i ggle j ig gle j ig! Diderum dum dnm, de ding dang da That is how the noises sounded when blended with th.e taran an tan a of the pipes. At tinies some of the dancers paused to "take a dbrink," and the musician let off steam until the music sounded like the ca9 kling of liens c o nfined in a.n empty barrel. For an hour the fun raged fast and furious, while the storm-king let loose his howling demons to shake the build ing to its foundations. At length the piper grew weary, for he was an old man, and while he drank a tumbler of punch the landlord was urged to sing a song After waiting on his thirsty and noisy guests, he sat himself on a barrel, folded his arms, closed his eyes, and roared out like a buffalo-bull the following SONG A song for Ould Erin, The island of beauty ; A song for the Shamrock, The H arp and the Green 1 A song for our heroes Who are ready for duty, And girls-for no fairer On earth was ne'er seen. I

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Though the chains of a tyrant In slavery bind us, Though sorrow and (amine Frown dark on our shore, Bt9ld Stephens will guide 111, Whatever betide us, Freedom shaq smile On Ould in once more. Long have we sorrowed, 'Mid oppression and angula]t Nobly we've borne, like A resolute band, No longer despondent And hopeless we languish, For aid will soon come }"'rom brave Washillgton;s landUnfurl the Green Arouse, ye brave Feniana I The Right shall yet triumph, For God ia on high! The Lion of England In terror is tremblini B1ave Stephens will lead you Tp conquer or die. The spirits of ms.rtyrs Are gazing upon youOf martyrs once slain For the land th.at we love; Like them be ye daring, Like them be ye faitbfnlThe Great God of battles Still r e igneth above Then drive the cursed tyrant From the soil of your country t Emmett's epitaph write! Thea to God bend the knee. I

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. MAD NAN OT, When Erin shall stand Amid othe:r nations Happy and blestBrightest Isle of the Sea I T aL The song was very well sung, though the sin ge r was con stantly annoyed by the usual Irish ci-i.es of" Pltla s ure to ye!" "More power!" "Success attind ;i:e !" "Rise it!" Dhat's dhe l ad to t i p it!" "May y'e niver die fur want iv breath!" "Hurroo!" "Success to Oul.d Ireland!" "Jem St e phens forevel'. and many similar expressions, that would sound 1trang e to a. person unacquainted with Irish character. The l and lord h ad hardly finished his song when the doo r was dashed violently open, and a man rushed the tap room crying : "Save me, ior God's sake! Dirkem's dragoons are after me, and they will be here in waif minute mol'e." The fugitive was covered with mud and his garments were so aked with rain. He gasped ou these w9rds and seized a chair to support himself. "Oh, murth er sure it's Emmett Clare from Kilkieran !" exclaim ed one "Save him! hide him a.way, quick!" said half a dozen at once. .. "Dhis way," cried the innkeeper, and op e ned the back door. "I can put you in a.1 nat e phlace, fwhere dhe divil wouldn't find ye." They hast e n ed out just as a. party of dragoons dashed up at full speed their sabres rattlin g and their loud shouts e choing hoarsely on the ear of night. "Dhis way, quickly!'"' whispered McGilligan, and grasp ing the fugitive's a rm, he h astened toward the barn-but, alas! they ;vvere too l ate. There was a shed behind the inn, and C aptain Dirkem rode past to gain its sh13lter, followed by a doz en troopers "Whom have we here?" he demand,ed, r eining in his horse, while his meu ca.me up. "Your servant, sir," sa id McGilligl}n-"ine brotli eran' I will ta.ke your honor's ho rse an' put him in dhe stha.ble.

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MAD NANOT. 45 . Fhly around, Pat, an' don't k'ape dhe gintletnan in clhe rain." The fugitive took the hint, and held Dirkem's horse while he dismounted; but the cunning officer was not to be deceived, for when he was safe on the ground he drew his sword and stared in Emmett Clare's face. Bring a. lantern, some of you," he crieJ, and one of the dragoons obeyed his command. The fugitive turned to fly, but saw he was hemmed in by his enemies, and that resistance was in vain. When the light was cast on his features from the lantern, Dirkem grasped his arm firmly. You a.re my prisoner, and if you offer a.ny resistance I'll blow your brains out," said the officer, calmly, and the fugi tive knew that he would keep his word. In anoth e r moment he was hand cuffod and marched into the hm. The ta.p room was deserted by a.ll, save the blind piper, who sat in a corner, smoking a pipe. Fe nia ns had fled, leaving the old man alone. "Give the men some whisky, for they look like drowned rats," said a young So we got you at last, though you gave us a devilish unpleasant ride," remarked Dirkem, turnin to his captive, who was closely guarded. . For fwhat chrime am I a.wested?" inquired Clare. "You are a Fenian, and a pik\e was found concealed un der the door-sill of your cott:ige: you were seen whe n pl a cing it there before going out in your boat this morning. The weapon is safe, a.nd the witne s s will appear against you when you are tried. Can you deny the charge?" "Fwhy should I? Dhe pike was ill my possession snre enqu gh; but it wasn't mine." Who did it belong to ?" "It was given to a fri'nd ofmine, an' fearing some ha1.im mig ,ht happen him,. I tuk)t a.way fhrom him, au' hid it 1un dher me own dooresill, sur." "Very well; if you can prove what you say you will astoni!Ul me, that's all; however, I'll give you a cha.nee to pro duce innocsnt said the Capte.i, and diir-pna laughed ai tlleir Captain' 1hrewdnea..

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4B YAD NA:NOY Peter McGilligan was trembling, for fear the fierce goons would arrest him; but" after waiting till the fury ot the storm abated, they rode away without paying their bill, and Peter breathed freer. The nearest jail was at Oughterard, and there the Cap tain sent liis prisdner J!ncler a strong guard, While he rode onward to the Osprey's ..Nest, with the remainder of hia troop. And now you wish to know where the dragoons first dis covered Emmett Clare; from what point the pursuit began. r A small boy had been employed to watch for his return, and when he landed on the beach, the lad gave the desired information, and the dragoons were after him before he reach. ed the cottage. The galloping of horses and the shouts brought Nell to the door in affright : A peasant told her what had occurred, and who they were after. Sense and strength deserted her, and she fell fainting on the floor. When consciousness returned, the storm was raging fiercely without, and Mail, Nancy was sitting on a low stool beside the bed, her face buried in the cov erlet. She was not alone-one frieml was near-and she knew that friend would $.ield her from every danger CHAPTER VIII .tOJ DASHER A.GAIN-THE l!'RNIA.llr SPY-THB J!'A.TAL SHOT, Early the following morning, Lord :Banker's agent rode up to the hut, and dir mounted. Holding the bridle over his arm, he approached the open door and looked in. Mad Nancy and our heroine were eating their morning meal, and he received no invitation to enter. Bo rabiecJ hll h11o\ b\li nqlijier of them returned b1I

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f K.A.D NA.NOY. 47 j,onteness, and, not caring for an old witch like Nancy, he addressed Nell" Well, my pretty bird, your father has been taken, I hear." I know it, Vmain. Where is he ?" ''Safe in Oughterard Jail; and he will remain there until Captain Dirkem has leisure to hang him." "For what?" demanded Nancy. "For being a Fenian ; for having a weapon concealed un der his doorsill ; in short, for treason." "Surely, they will give him a fair triiil ?" A. fair trial," sneered Dasher. Could he prove that he Is not a Fenian? Can he prove that he hadn't that pike, or that he didn't hide it in a little box under his doorsill ? What witneases can he produce to vouch he is innocent of these criminal charges?'' Mad Nancy knew not what t.q say: she w that Emmett Clare was in a dangerous predicament, from which there ap peared no chance to escape. Nell sat weeping in silence, with her half-finished meal standing before her. "Joe Dasher, this is your doing, and yau have caused me all this iisery," sobbed the wretclied girl. "Suppose he is transported, or-hung," she added, after a paiuful pause, "what would his death benefit you, when I am alone in the world without a protector ?" When I informed on him, I only did my duty as one of her most Gracious Majesty's faithful subjects; but," he ad ded, hesitatingly, I can save him even now." Oh! save him the11, and may God bless you," cried Nell, in pleading accents. "Save my poor father, for if he is taken from me, I shall be alone in the world without a protector. Be kind, be manly," be generous, and I will ways be your friend. Will you ?" On o .ne condition, and you know what that.is. Become my bride, and I solemnly swear your father shall be restored to you in forty eight hours afterward. I have no other terw to offer." ---..,-...,, ..

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48 MAD N ANOY. The half-distracted girl looked appealingly at Mad N abcy throu gh her tears. Her he,art was tortured with conflicting emotions, and it between adverse opinions. "Heed him not," cried the old woman, "for .your ,fathel" would rather die like a man, than see you the bride of a vil lain. Joe Dasher, begone I and remember my rophecy: J If Emmett Clare is transported, if Emmett Clare is hung, yon will die soon afterward, for there are Feni,JJ.ns who '\'ill avenge bis death in a fearfu l : fly to fly to the world'sremote ; e liounds, they will find you even there, and your heart's blood will atone for the misery you causep this helpless, innocent girl. Remember, I do not threaten you, but warn you, as a friend, and you will do well to paue.e ere it is too late. Go your way, and remember well my words." ' We shall see," replied the agent, as he mounted his horse and rode away . He" was hardly-"llllt of sight 'when Captain Dirkem galloped up, attended by half a dozen dragoons. "Within 1:here Is any person at h bme ?" shouted the officer, and Nell hastened to the door, her cheek pale, her eyes dim with tear s. Are you Miss Clare?" demanded Dirkem, after admir ing her han(lsome face a moment in silence. ''.Yes, sir; I am Emmett Clare'& only child." "Well; I called to inform you that your fathei: is a i;>ris oner in Oughterard Jail. I am on my way thither, and if' yc\u have any message to send I will be the bearer of it . " If I should go to Oughterard will I be allowed to see him?" She g azed upward in stern face through tears, and her voice was tremulous with emotion. His heart was touch ed "It is not customary to admit visitors, but in this case I will favor you. You are his only childf I believe?" '"He is all I have on earth, and he has no one to love but me. My mother sle e ps in the grave-yard behind those rocks yonder," and she pointed toward the place. He was not looking at her. He had baken a blank-1'.oek

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I MA) D NANCY. from his pocket, and it on the saddle, he filled in a paper resembling a chepk. ':, "Your name ?" "Nellie Clare.'' He wrote again, I 1 and tilen tearing out the he gave it to her, saying: '.' 'fhere is a pass. Present it to the keeper and he will ad mit you. Do not be alarmed, for the judge will not visit ()ughterard in a month, but wb'P.nhe do e s arrive, your father will be tried with the cursed Fenians who are confined with bim. Good morning!" "Good' day, and thank you," said Nell, as he rode away. "Now for that daring Smuggl e r and Spy, Neil Connor," e::i: claimed the Captain, and anoMlcr pang pierced Oil! heroine's heart when she heard her lover's nam.e. "God help me, they are after poor Neil," she cried, and sitting down on the door-step, she watched them ride away, their accoutrements gl a ncing .n the golden sunlight. "Cheet up, darling, for God watc hes over all his crl'.fl.tnres, and there is happiness in store for you, tudugh your joy shall be with sorrow," said the old woman, laying her' ahriveledhand on the fair girl's llead 1 1 1 "I read your fortune lng ago ; I tral'ell out your de&tiny on the palm of your hand; I saw it wpen I cut the cards; !t was rey ealed when we 11tood b e n e ath the tw.inkl f ng stars on your last pirth-day eve; and my proph e sy is slowly coming to its ,fullllment. I "But fear not, .though the parent trl:le fall the Y?ung branch l'liall flourish, and put buds to bloom in beauty; ,the gardener shall -!lurse them all with tender care." .; ... "Will "lly father die?" asked Nell, 1'Vildl,v,. "The sged tree shall fall, aJJd the young sapling shall a time, bu,t it will spring U{> and fiowish in other soil. J can tell thee po more;: "!11\rk! what was that? I heard a shout," cried Nell, t? her feet. "What
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60 MAD NANO'!, comes a man, closely purs1:1ed by Dirkem and bis dragoons I be is running for life My God, it is Nell!" She was right. The dragoons surprised him on the beach by suddenly iurning around a rocky p watched the exciting chase with breathless intere s t. "Thank God I they cannot take him now," exclaimed Nell \ proudly, and Mad Nancy added "You may well love and admire him, acushla, for thei& no man jn Ireland more handsome and brave." Wiili durses and yells of rage the infuriaied dragoons spur.red on after him, but he soon vanished from their' sight In the clista1ice. Ladies and gentlemen saw hlm, while on

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" lfAD NANO"\', 51 anda 9.t the Osprey's Nest, and many thought he was in league with Satan. Four dragoons continued the us e less pursuit, while their comrades halted to assist Captain Dirkein. "Are you badly wounded?" inquired a bearded fellow, as he bent above him. There was no reply. They gazed in his face, and saw it wa8 ghastly; they raise
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lill llAD NANOY. nl CHAPTER IX. Ollr. THB BEAOH-Nl!LL1S ANGUISH-A JOYOUS SURPRISB_!J. NARROW ESOA.PE. I Again the sun set, and the twilight settled down on earth and sea . The Fenians were to meet that night in a cave behind Anthony's Nose, Nancy had proll).ised to be pres e nt, so she bade Nell adieu for a short ti:ne, promising to return before miclnight. When she had gone,' our her0lne visited some of the cabins to converse with her friends: alter an hour 'li.mong them, she sauntered out to the beach, accompanied by little Mark Moran, the baptain's son, who was boarding atFather Darcy's, a mile from Kilk.ierau Bay 1 -He had come down to Kilk.ieran for the Dublin paper t hat was left regularly at the Osprey's Nest for the priest, and he was in no hurry to return. Having met Nell, he walked out with her, assuming the air of a favored suitor. He was a bright intelligent lad with curling hair rosy cheeks and black eyes, and he was attired in white duck pants, blue jacket, with brass buttons, light buskin s and a, wide-rimmed, palmetto hat, ornamented with a green ribbon. He was twelve yeal'! of age, bnt wise beyond his years; and the remark was common among the "old grannies : "Dhe crn.thur is too ould-fashloned." Dhe gossoon is far too wise to live lor But hla robust appelij'Pce n po w y JU'lfled such ah ,ertlont. .

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M:A:I> N ANOT, "Go your father is in jail," he remarked, as they paced l eisu r e ly over the ": hite sand. Yes, they have taken him; it was all Joe Dasher's doings," she said, sighing. I know all about it, Nell th"e rascal loved you, and be cause you wouldn't marry him, he wanted to have revenge. The mean scamp! If I was old enough, if I was strong enou,gh, if I was liklt your lover, Neil, I would beat him till ile couldn't walk." Nell smi,led, for the lad's black eyes fl.ashed, and be brought his right hand down on his l eft, to give emphasis to hi& words. "When shall you visit him ?"he asked . "I am going up by "Alone?" "I have no pers n to go with me; that is, any suitable companion "I'll ask Fa:ther Darcy, and he will let me off for a
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MAr>. NANCY. bis life was in danger, and a man that won't de(end himself is e. coward. Why don't you and him get married, and go some place i.ri the 'mountains of where you will both be safe? He can't raise the devil forever in the man ner he is doing, and his dsribg deeds won't help him when the hangman puts a rope round his neck." "He is very rash, and I tremble for his safety; but I can not change him," said Nell, bitterly. "Well, I hope no harm will come to him, but-but if h6 died, if-if he was killed in any way, would you accept me for your lover? Would you wait, and marry me when I am old enough?" . Wasn't he old-fashioned, this boy-man? He hsd,re'a many an old romance, and ai.eady he fancied himself a gay cava lier; a youthful knight ; a hero Nell Clare heard him talk in this strain iany times before, and she smiled at his earnestness. If she had laughed it would have him. Once he had spoken thus to the Lady Agnes O'Hara, and when she laughed m e rrily, he bowed low and walked away irl silence never speaking to her again. '.Mark Moran had never been a child. He was born with a man s thoughts and passions. Ile always shurined the companionship of boys near his own age, and girls of twelve were quite beneath his nolice. He was a mystery to ali who knew him. "Why don't you answer me? If anything should happen, if Neil was taken from you, would you wait and be m f wife when I am old enough?" They had unconsciously halted beside a rock where lhe waves rolled almost up to their feet, and the moonligh was falling on the boy's handsome face, revealing an earnest, eager gaze as he waited for her answer. "I pray God, that nothing will happen to take Neil from Ille,'-' she said, "but if ever I am alone in the world you will be dearer to me than any I know..'' "That's honest, and I am satisfied. I shall rememl>er your words, lmd you mu1t not ferget them, for. I may elP-im your _,romtao .. .., )

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MAD NANOY 155 "Oh! my poor father. He is pining in his loathsome prison, while I am here talking oflove; and per haps Neil ls taken, too, by this time," sobbed the almost heart-broken girl. . "The cursed red-coats haven't captured me yet," ex claimed a voice behind them . The boy started ; and Nell gave an exclamation of alarm. Turning, they beheld the Spy gazing over the rock, laughing merrily. . Fine work thil," he said, jestingly, "while I am hunted like a fox, this young gentleman is trying to steal away my girl's love. You young rascal, I always believed you were my friend but now I have found you out. "Shake hands with me across the rock, Nell. I dare not come around on that side, for there are four or five red-coat.a smoking on the veranda, and they have keen eyes." Nell leaned against the huge boulder, and rested her arm carelessly on its top. In a moment her hand was clasped warmly, and a thrill of joy ran through her frsme at the : touch. "How did you escape from your pursuers?" she inquired, and the lad said : Talk away. I'll keep a keen eye on the fine gentlemen up at the Osprey's Nest." They didn't pursue me far, and I rode along the coast for five miles, turried the horse loose, and saw Captain Moran's little clipper rounding Devil's Point under full sail. I hailed him, and a boat was sent to take me on board-t.te fug itives he went to rescue were iu. the cabin-after sailing about in search of the ship we are expecting, I gave orders to put back into Kilkieran Bay, for I wanted to seei you be fore we go on another cruise." You gave orders-,.hat have you to wit Captain Moran's fishing smack?" "Fishing smack! Well, that's rich, isn't 1t, Neii ?" said Mark, laughing. "Why, Nell, that fishing smack is.a clean-sailing little clipper with (our guns, and the fishing buRiness is only a It.Ou:. Hy. father ill a smuggler, and Neil is his first mate."

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IS6 MAD NANCY. "Spy and Smuggler both! Strapge y OU never'. told me this. Neil, I fear they will capture you ere Joag, and if you are take n you will surely be bung." yop. can m :ury m y youn g rival, Mark,'" said the merry-hearted Spy. "rlnt I haven't much time to spare, for I 11111st be at the meeting," he exclaimed. How far es CaJ>7 tain Dirkem? Was the wound I gave him dang e rous\>" "It was fatal-it was a mortal wound:.._ he is dead." "Dead? Then must look out for myself; out I didn't intend to kill him ; I thought I aim e d above his-h ear t.'' '.l'he bullet pierc ed his h ea rt, and he died instantly," Said Mark. "Well, he is a great lo ss to the service, but. a s mall loss to I will l eave this part of the country in a few days, and before I go Fatber Da.rcy sha ll mak e us a happy pair, then I can take you with me. After l eaving you ,iith some faithful fri e nds in Cobemara, I will get your father out of the jail, '!ln' d settle down quietly with my happy bride until my ser viees are needed to assist in driving our oppressors from old Erin's soil. You w ill be ready for the change when I ask you, Nell?" "Ready to share your joys and sorrows at any hour you may name, and I shall be h ap py when you abandon your reckless mode of living; nay, I shall n eve r know joy 1;ntll There was a silqnt pressure of the hands, and a glance n:;.ore eloquent than words, then the glad lover bounded over the barrier bet ween them, and cla sped the blushing gtrl to his heart. 1 The boy look e d on the m<1onlit sea, and at that moment ho wished Neil Connor was safe in Ought erard Jail, under sen tence of death. From tllat hotu: he him . The Spy ha' d just r e l eased Nell from his embrace, and was bidding farewell, wheu a stout dragoon da.rLed around the roek, and seized him from behind. "Now I have you," l:e wwlaimed ; and tb..::n be shouted loudly: '' 'J'his way boys! This way qukk l The Fen!an Spy! The Fenian S9y !" Our heroine daspeil her hands crying, "Poor Nell! poor

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MAD NANOY 57 Neil!" in and a party of soldiers came running toward them in frantic haste. Neil put forth all his stren gt h, but tbe burly dragoon held hipi in a bear's grip. In vain he struggled, a nd a broke from his lips when be saw his enemies approaching with ex ultant shouts. For an instant, Mark M ora n stood irresolute, undecided; .. then drawing a pistol from his pocket, he placed it close to the dragoon's ear, and fired. The man relaxed his hold, and fell heavily on the sand. ' "G,od ble3s you! You haye saved my life! This w.ay with me, for my boat is near by0 and our vessel.is at anchor beyond Si. Anthony's Nose. Fly with me." "Save yourself; I will remain and protect Nell; they will not harm me; I'll tell them you fired the shQt. Away!" The Spy bo1inded away, for bis enemies were within a few yards of the rock. Quickly he sped along the beach, keep ing under cover of the rocks until be reached a sheltered cove where his boat was moored It was bi.1t the work of a moment to unloose the cord, and l ea ping in, with a few vigorous strokes of oars, he sent the light'bark far out on the sparkling water. The tide was running out rapidly, and when the dragoons reached the spot, he was far away from land. A shout of rage echoed amid the rocks, and a volley of shots rattled over the Spy's head, a few bullets striking the boat. "' He laid fiat, however, with bis oars beside him until the tide bore him out of harm's way, then sitting erect he pulled for the saucy clipper that was rocking on the water opposite St. Anthony's Nose With curses and imprecations, the baflled pursuers slowly their steps, until they came to the spot where Mark and our heroine were standing Who shot that man?" demanded the young lieutenant, pointing to the dragoon who lay dead on the sand. "I did," answered the lad. fearlessly, "and I would shoot you, llllder the same circumstances."

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l58 MAB NA.NOY. "Se ize the rascally young reb e l and handcuff him! To morrow he s hall find lodgin g s in Oughterard Jail. Bring that girl along al so, fur she was seen con versing with the Sp y and wome n are often our most dailger' ous enemies. Use her g e ntly,'' he added, marching away Fear not said the courageous lad, as they were l e d to ward the Osprey's Nest, where a room was fitt e d op for pris oners; "Neil and my father will find where we are, and the Feni a ns will free us, if they have to storm the jail . Don't cry, Nell, for Neil is safe." This comforted her, and dr y ing her tears, she resolved to bear up bravely, trusting in Him who never forsakes any ot His children.

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KA.D NANOT. 59 CHAPTER X. TDK nnstt' BLOW BTRUOX-THE CONFLAGRATION-THE TWO NOTES. 1 The authorities were by this time greatly alarmed. The gentry and land-owners were afraid to venture forth at night. I Murders were committed, and the assassins managed to es-" cape deteqtion, though officers we11e on their track in every directiou. The tenantry were not to be trusted. The half-starved wretches plundered their landlord's property; burned their bay-ricks; robbed their granaries ; drove away their cat tle ; and caused a reign of terror in that section of the country;. The dragoons were exasperated at their losses, and In vengeful spirit, abused the poor, irrespective of age or sex. Larger were off!)red for suspected Fenians, and One Thousand Pounds n for the capture of Neil Conner, the Fenian Spy. Men were hung for singing the"' Wearing of the Green," or whistling the soul stirring airs that roused the Irish hearts in "'98." , Many prisonei:s who were languishing in. dungeons were executed without any trial, and hundreds were punished to gratify a mean spirit of personal hate. Thus matters stood when Mark Moran and our heroine 'Were marched offto Oughterard Jail, to await their trial "Other prisoners, befqre His Honor, 'H&rai" and tu "'imty magtstra.t8"

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MA l) NA. N _OY. On the night after Nell Clare's arrest the sn:all band ot Fenians who assembled in the ruined castle, d ete rmined to strike their fir s t blow. Led on by Neil Conner, one ,Party surrouhded O'I;lara's house about midni g ht, while another d e tachm ent approacb.ed Lord Banker's handsome mansion, and a small r ese rve was tationed to guard the road, commanded by Andy. M a rtin.' They were all armed, and determined to figh t t he dragoons, if they were attacked. Six men, wearing masks, entered O'Ha r a's ho\1se, captured the Lady Agnes in her chamb e r without di s turbing the slumbering household : when they had contlucted h e r safely into the park, and placed two men to watch herself and her maid, the hou s e was set on fir e and the whole party retreated rapidly across the country, s epara tin g h ere and there, as they sought their homes. The Spy, Andy Martin, and Captain Moran hastened on to the beach with their fair captive, and entering a boat that was awaiting their arrival, they were rowed out to gal lant little clipper, that was dancing on the water s The other party fired Lo .rd Banker's mansion and th e n scattered in different di.J:ections, as their companions had' done. The fire spread rapidly, and as the great buildi ngs becam e envelop e d in the flames, their lurid g l a re illumin ated the sur rounding country far a.gd' wide : gilding the m ountai n peaks, and adorning the blue waters with a thousand go rgec-"ua hmL The famili es fle d forth in wild affright, exp ec ting to be massacred by the brutal Fenians; but no en e my was in sight: the parks were silent and deserted : save by the timid d eer that r etreate d to. the farthest extremit y wh ere they gazed back at the strange scene wonderingly ; and the moon smiled down coldly froni the pure, unclouded sky. Lord Banker saw that he could not save his house, andi leavin g his servants to guard the furniture that was piled up on the lawn, hastened to O'Hara'& to guard his ij ed 1

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M:AD NANCY. 61 He was met lby O'Hara., who w11.s mad witJi grief and rage. "Oh! Banker, Banker, this is the work of Fenian incen diaries, and I'll hang every man in Jail tor outr age, he cried. Worse than all, my daughter is missing, and in the gen eral tumult the villains mu.st have captured her." "My God! this U. awful," cried Banker. "Hang every Fenian in Ireland if you can l That cursed Spy is at the bot tom of it all, and he has carried th'e Lady Agnes to some wild retreat in the mountains." "Wha't' shall we do? My child, my child!" grba ned the old man, in agonizing accents. I Order out your servants, and I will order out mine-arm e 'lery man1 and let them scour the mountains-se nd the soldiers in every direction-start detectives on their track-; offer a lar ge r eward for your daughter, and I will off e r another for the Fenian Spy-some of his own brotherhood will betray him for money, and the Lady Agn e s will also be found. Meanwhile we can nnd lodgings at the Osprey's Nest, for sevefal families are leaving because they deem it unsafe to stay.'' 1 Your advice shall be taken," said O'Hara, as he turned' io gaze at the burning building. A ragged boy approached and placed two notes in the old D'.!an's hand. 1 "Who gave you these? Who sent them?" demanded the magistrate. "A man beyant," replied the lad, as he bounded away into the dark shade of the trees "What's up now?' : asked Two Oi;ie is for you,'' he adde11, turning them toward the fire-light, that enabled him to decipher the inscription : Lord Banker took it and broke tlie seal. They both read and finished at the same momellt. What are the contents of yours ?" O'Hara. 1 "I am informed that my life is in danger, and politely re quested to leave this county if I would save it. The raacal is signed, A Fenian.'

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' MAD NANOY, What will you do?" / 1 "I shall remain, and trust to the dragoons for protection. What is in your note, O'Hara?" , '"The e is no threat. The writer ,snys I must release Emmett Clare, his daughter, and Mark Moran from jail When that is done my daughter shall be restored to me un harmed ; but," added the magistrate, "her captors swear to hold her until the demand is complied with. Tl:j.e writer says in conclusion-by I bere is a threat, and no li.stake: 'If Emmet Clare is either transported or exiicuted, it any harm is done to his daughter, if the lad, Mark Moratl, is punished as a criminal-the Lady Agnes O'Hara shall die.'" "My God we are both in a bad fix," exclaimed Lord Banker, "and thesll devilish Fenians have advantage. O'Hara, what course shall you pursue?" Emmett Clare and the lad, Moran, shall swing, but _the girl shall be released ; she has done no harm. I shall do my duty as a magistrate, for it will never do to let these scoun drels intimidate us with threats. They dare not harm my child." A crowa from was fast gathering, and the two gentlemen hastened forward to speak with Lieutenant Wellesley, who commanded the dragoons. The poor stood by the roadside, and laughed to see the confiagratio.n. Mad Nancy smiled as she1watched it from her eyrie in the tower. Moran and the Spy saw the light from the deck of their vessel. "And still the flames rose higher, lighting the landscape for miles; and the wild wind howled in fiendish glee; and the mad waves clapped their bands as they came dancing to the shore; then, when the walls of both houses foll with a loud crash, the moon and stars veiled their faces behind murky storm-clouds; while the heavens wept for sinful, fallen man. The crowd gradually disinrsed, and silence and darkneSI reigned.

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MAD NANOY. CHAPTER XI. BLOODY STRUGGLE--T J'ENIAB TRIUMPH. 63 Three days passed, and the aspect of things remained un-changed. The Lady Agnes cam e not back, No arrests were made. Emmett Clare was half tried, wiiout witnesses, and sen, tence to be hung. The scaffold was erected on Execution Hill, near the jail, so that those who witnessed the imposing spectacle might be terrified at the power of the Law, and at an early hour on the fatal morn large crowds came from the hills and valleys, from the neighboring towns and villages, rich and poor mingling together. Four men were to "swing," and Eipm&tt Clare was one of them. _Forty dragoons guarded the sooffold, and as the hour drew nigh, the excitement of the populace was intense. peasants stood back behind the quality, most of who were on horseback, or in Ca.rriages, and the dragoons rode about the scaffold with drawn swords, keeping back those who pressed too far forwai:d in their eagerness to behold the tragic scene. A small constabulary force a passage open 1 through the throng, to make room for the doomed men to pass, when the hour for execution arrived. Mad Nancy was seated on a rock behind the throng ; and from her elevated position, she commanded a good view of \he scaffold. her, three ragged, bare-footedt:rchint -

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64 MAD NANOY. were perched, and two of them w ep t bitt er ly, for th ei r fath ers were w ith the condemned. Insulting j eers an d tauut s gre ete d the soldiers, and rib a ld j est s were showered on the wealthy spectators, by the peasants. Neil Conner, the Spy, was there, disguised as an old woman, selling cakes and candies. Captain Moran was th e r e disg uised as an old man with a hump on bis back, le a ning heavily on a blackthorn staff, as he hobbled about on the out s kirts of the crowd. Andy Martin was there, wearing a black wig, attired in sailor's garb, and he cmsed every person who jostled him as he hobbl e d on crutches. And there was a pand of Fenians, numbering in all hundred men, armed to the teeth, and bid in the bogs be hind Execution Hill. What were they there for? Wait and see. ,, The hour arrived at last, and silence reigned, when tb.e tap of a muffled drum announced the approach of the victims from jail, guarded Their hands were pinioned behind them, and Father Darcy officiated oil tlte sol e mn occasion. Four police came first ; then then the priest in .full robes ; him, Pat Mehan; Hugh Meha n ; John Shields ; and Emmett Clare, who marched with his bead proudly erect, his eyes flashing defiance on enemies, while the others were downcast and des p ondent. Loud cheers greeted him, and a voice in the crowd ex-' claimed"Keep up Emmett!' They won't harlg you!" but no person knew the daring The culprits ascended the scaffold, and the fierce
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YAD NANOY, tlugh ?ifoban calmly met his fate, and the peasants crowded closer, with frnwning brows. John Shi e lds 111apcd from the scaffold, and was cut down by the dragoons; half dead, nn\l bleeding from ,many wounds, he was carried up the creaking steps-the fatal noose was forced over his head-an,d he was launched intc eternity. 1 A wild yell of fury and indignation arose, and the mob ns!!ailcd the police with clubs and stones, driving them in wild dirnrder among the dragoons for protection, and the fight became general. In the midst of this tumult, the "quality" scattered in ev ery direction, and the horsemen charged on the rabble, cut ting down some, and trampling many under foot. Father Darcy shouted out remonstrances in vain. The Sheriff sef,zed Emmett Clare and attempted to drag him under the fatal noose, but with a superhuman effort, the brave fisherman burst his bonds, and dealt the sheriff a blow with bis fist, that knocked him reeling from the scaffold. At the same the old woman leaped up the steps, and drawillg two revolvers from her basket, placed them in his bands, then grasping two similar weapons, he dashed the baS'.kct of in an officer's f&ce, and together, Emmett and himself leaped in among the combatants. "Ireland anc!Libcrty Down with the red coats! The Fenians forever!" shouted the mob, and pistol-shots rattled in rapid succession. 1 The dragoons attempted to cut down their infuriated ene mies, but.several of them were knocked senselPss from their saddl es, and at length the order was given to "Fire!" Drawing their pistols, they laid many a peasant low, and tliose in the mob who carried fire-arms paid them back shot for shot. The co::istaliles charged in a body on the mob, and madly strove to recapture Emmett Clare, but as he stood his ground, dodging here and there, the Spy, Captain Moran, and Andy Martin, with a dozen resolute men, all ariirnd with six-shoot ers, force d them to retire, leaving five of the,ir number wounded on t}le ground.

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. , 68 lll AD N N 0 Y, All this was the work of a few moments, and the ura.goous were about to charge, dete.r:mined to capture Emmett and his defenders, when a wild yell echoed in their They turned in their saddles to gaze back, and a sud_den consternation seized every man as they beheld the Fenian band coming down on them like an avalanche, with leveled pikes bristling in a long line. "Ireland and Liberty I" the,:r cried, and then echoed the Irish yell that curdled their heart's blood; the yell that struck terror in the Frenchmen's hearts at Waterloo. The police retreated, pell mell, toward the jail ; and aftc., h esitating a moment, the dragoons wheeled and rode after them, clo.sely pursued by the daring band. The gates were thrown open,and the flying rushed in like a flock of sheep, while hard on their heels pressed the Fenians, beaded by Neil Connor. "In after them, and rescue Nell Clair I Rescue the Cap tain's son! Let every prisoner at liberty, but ed no blood except in self-defence," cried the Spy, and the whole band swept into the quadrangular court, carrying everything be fore them like the rolling waves of the mighty sea. The dragoons again fled through the yard, and together with the police, passed out of the back glltes, leaving the Fenians masters of the place. The victors cheered lustily, and in ten minutes ev.ery captive wias released. Nell and little Mark were restored to their friends, and joy reigned in every heart. Knowing reinfofcements wquld soon arrive to aid their enemies, the Fenians left the jail in flames, and hastened to their mountain haunts, where pursuit would have been mad ness.... The Spy, CapWn Moran, Emmett Clair, Andy Martin our heroine, and Mark reached the coast, and, unseen by their enemies, embarked on board the saucy clipper that was waiting t-0 receive them. Ere nightfall a large force of soldiers o.nd police were bunt ing among the mountains in every direction. but not one Fenian was found.

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MAD NA N 10Y 61 The smug g ling craft was at anchor in Kilkieun Bay, and no person was to b e see n on the1 decks save an old nfan, who was pacing to aud fro, smoking a Dutch pipe. No suspicion was attached to the vessel that lay rocking on the waters. It came and went without for everybody knew Captain Moran was a harmless, hard-work ing man, who troubled lillnself about nothing save fishing. Poor fools! The Captain's daring disarmed his enemies of all suspicion, and they thought no man would anchor under their nose if he was in any way connected with the Fenians. But the Fenians who were on board the swift-sailing per knew that they could not remain unsuspected after what had occurred and, besides, a suspicious-looking craft was visible in the. offing "I must leave Bay before I am. blockaded," muttered the man who was smoking, as he examined the ltra.nge vessel through his glass.

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, 68 MAD NA.NOY. CHAPTER XII. 1,'llB OlIIEF SEIZ E D AND OONFINBD IN DUBLill '' B RIDEwBLL." The day passed aw ay, and ni ght ca ln e with moon and stars. Neil Connor and his b e trothed h a d pa s sed the hours in sweet converse, revi ewing the m any dan ge rs throu g h which they had both pa s sed, thanking God for their d e liverance and forming plans for fi+ture happin ess, as all young love r s wijl do when they are alo n e to ge ther. The re was not a sad he art 0 1l boa r d the little craft save on e . 'l'he Lady Agnes O'Hara s at in the cabin and wept until the sun went down, and then h e r whole manner ch a n ged. She dried her tears and paced the cabin like an enrag e d tigress, thre atening h e r captors with de at h. The con sola tion that Nell offer e d was scorn ed, and her companion s hip was haughtily declined. The hi g h-born maiden ord e red th& innocent girl from the cabin, calli.iig her a "low F e ni a n wench," and saying th a t Bhe wanted no comp a ny but her French maid, Louise, and our h e roine left h e r in dis g ust When twilight settl e d down on the face of the w a ters, Spy, Andy Martin, 11-nd Capt a in Moran were holding a con tmlt a tion on deck. Light shone brightly from the windows of the Osprey's Nest, and an unusu a l commotion reigned on shore . Horsem e n were rid in g to and fro ; J:\len and women were assembl e d on the b a l con y ; the tenants were conversin g in groups around the c ab i n d o ors; a ud the three Feni a ns watch .ed these strange proceeding with lively interest.

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JIAD l!lANOY fl9 "Somtthing has happened," exclaimed the Spy, as a loud "hurrah," Came to their ears Oll tht f!)Vening breeze. I 'J "They are rejdicing over something," :remarked the Cap tain, turn mg to gaze ,int the distanli ship; that loomed up darkly against the unclouded 15ky. ' 1 ,< "I wondher fwnat djie divil.it citt be? fur Ws l"ttle cause dhey have furrejoidng, afther db.e b'11otiq' w.e give dbe,m,dbi@. day, Andy. ..,, -. if me two. eyes don'tgesal;eme,,dbere's a shmaU boat comin' dhis way fhrom dhe shore! Luk.,it's jusbttilrni.n dhe ip'int o' r ocks iYOndher, an' dheteiaonly wan man in ud." ... Some of our friends with important info:vtnation," said the Spy, ana they watched the oarsman as he rowed vigorouslJ tow:irds-them. ' ' ; In about fifteen minuteS, he was "".ithin speaking d'stanc6j and the hoarse hail, '' Ship ahoy I" came across the Waters. . r-1 .. ., c 'Boat !t'eturne4 the Captain. WMt's U. matter on shore?" Who is on boord ?" All friends.,, , I" I Are they Fenians?". ,,, "All firm in the ri g ht. cause "Very well ; I have news flR' yese ; official news, !hi\& can be relied on ; but I can't sthop tO tell .it;' dh61 rid coats a:re watchin' me fhrom dh"e snore:" 'l ,, -He rewed on rapidly, and is he pa88ed under the ihip'a lte' n, he exclaimed' "Our chief is captured I Dhey have him confined in Dub lin Bf.id w-eUI Sail away fhrom dhis divilish soon, fur clbere'!I' a brig-iv.:war lyin1 outside, an' dhey re goin' to cap ture yese to-night I Joe Dasher saw yese going_ on board, ao' he has' informed." 1 This was' all the fait!fol fellow--said, &S he )lept on his way without resting on his oars' a mom'llnt. _.' :1 v He was seen from _ibe shore, but his voice was noti heard, and nothing wrqng was suspected by the enemy. 04 Poor fellow, theyi haTe him aiflast; and Uie111 hang

ue 1 11.lD HAllOY TIIX POWER 01!' GOLD-"WB kBT J.GA.Ilt11..;....TIIB MIDNIGD L'LIGilT. i JI fl{ q i ,.. Time passed on, and tbe Spy was not idle in Dublin. llili enabled him to walk througtit the most public thor oughfares in the noontide glare, and his audacity sl:lieldea him from suspicion. No btogue affected bis accent, and he passed for a wealthy Quaker traveling for pleasure, whose mild tnanner of speecli / intetilpersed Witli a moderate quantity Gf" thees 'and thous,11 he closely He was, in fact, a model Quaker, and his whole mode ot living at the. mostfashionable hotelin Sackvillb Street. would have blinded all the Friends in the "City of Brotherly ;Love, 11 or all the broad-brims that ever raised garden seeds down tew Wethersfield, Connecticut." He was not idle in the great, busiling city; be had mingled with the Fenians; he had gained a tiudget 'Of useful information; he frequently conversed with tbe Government officials i he had twice visited the old Bridewell with the Lord Mayor ; and he bad received a large a.mount of money from various sourc es, the use ot' which ;will soon be known. He visi te d Dublin for the sole purpose of liberating the great (J. O. I. R. of the Fenian Brotherhood, and no bette1 man c.ould bave been chosen for the important undcrtak.ingi in the United Kingdo. m. ; Time passed on, and as the friends of the Head Centre began to despair, the Spy's hopes rose hi g her, for he was con ti.dent of success. Money was the power on which be d e pended to carry ou' plans, and his movem ents w ere QQ11fiqed to no

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KA':D 1''ANOY. One night the pseudo was sitting in his chamber in S a ckville Street, when a vis itor was announced. The was no less a personage than the pris on-keeper, who had called to spend au hour with the d i stinguished ':American, (as he informed tpe landlord,) from whom he ex pected to hear important news, relating to the contemplated Fenian movements in the United States. "Pump him all you can, for the Yankees ate very com JPunicative, if you give him three of punch7 he will tell all he knows, if it takes him till morning, 1' said mine host,"with a knowing wink. .t "Bring up the J>Unch, and 'make it strong. Does he smoke?" ' '' "Yes; like a steam-tug, or a bad chimney "Give us cig ars, then, and see no person intrudes I may learn all about the expect e d Canadian invasion, and if I do, you shall hear the news. Sweeney is bound to do something, whetlJ,er he is supported by the O'Mahony or not ," at, least; my American Cousin tells me so." n They both laughed at the joke, i.nd the Bridewell function ary ascende q the stairs The Spy rec e ived his visitor kindly, the punch and cigars were brought the door was locked, the keyhole was and in a few moments they were in earne s t conversation. Well, hast thou considered my offer:, fried ?" inquired "Ezekiel Barber," as he sipped his punch. "Yes; I have thought the matter well o'ver, and being a mys elf, I think it my duty to liberate (JUr Chil)f; but it is putting my own life in danger." ' .. "To save the prisoner from an i g nominious death upon tpe scaffold, a man should be willing to anything; and . no one will imagine that you had a hand in the matter-no, eally. The turnk e y and the guard will be suspected but thou art ':love having, as thou sayest, 'manilAed an intense hatred for all Fenians thereby blinding those ho are bi g 1 in authority. Thou had'st b e tter take the gold I am commi s sion e d to offe r the e and release the unfortunate patriot'from the bands of liis oppressors, for which deed thy ;nafue shall be 'Vene rated in future ages l have received a

. K 1D l!J A If OI. 19 r bave pidcured for the occssiim. If any person sees you together, they will officer OR.duty, and if you boldly through the country togetb,er, people will natu1 rally suppose that t you "e.i'e in pursuit of a criuiinal:" "Thou couldst not have chosen a0 betteD di.aguise, for, it any of his: enemies beboldJiim. : 'f.Aen he leaveth the pJiij_on, they will think he is ofilce1 1 di3ohg.rging 1 bis quty-..,.y ea, Terily.'' _, J J 'v, [ Well, I must be off," exclaiqied the Jailor, an\},Jpqtting on his Mt he 1ihi8lled his i p@ch, grasped the valise, and walked to the door . ..,, ' r "Remember the hour," said the Quaker, 11ignificantly; and his visitor hastened r down the 11ta.irs, exclaiming in a loud voice, sO that the loungers btilQW mightltear Rim: I "n_.:..n the Eehian .s! They: L give po. day, hu1T I'll 1lave'. that fel low in irqus 'Qefore morning, if I put all the police in on his track. ;.,Good pight, Barber, and I,am to you for the valuable iilforma1 tion." 1 "What'!! up? Did you pump j;he rasca.i wel,l ?" whis pered the landlord, eatching the jailor'11 arm y he was haste'ning out. "Believe me, I did ; and he hli.!! put me on, a new trapk. lf things go .on as h.e h&11; p!anned thei, I ll NeU 1 Connor, the Fenian Spy. Mr. Barber ought to o:flice from the government;" ' -c' .So saying, h 1, w)Uked toJV.l}l'd the jail, over the entrance of which are carved these w9rds; Cease To .Do Evil.. Learn 'foDo Well." Soon after his visitor departed, the Quaker descended the atairs, and.strolled out into the f!treet. Many gentlemen laughed at his garb, his hat, and indispensable blue cotton umbrella, which he always carried, rain or shine. but the pseudo-American paid no heed to their audible remarks, though at another time he might have given an exh.iJ:>ition of his muscular power, and "polished soma of them off in short order." He wandered about the streets, gazing innocently into lhop windows until they were closed, and then he satlntered I

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80 on until he rea
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11.l D RA 'ITOY.' 81 CHAPTER 1'11.. v. ..l oHAPTBR OJI'" SMAJ,L ITEJilB. l t A great excitement was caused by the escape of the prisoner ; and the new-s was spread like wildfire over the land. Ships were examined ; ports were guarded ; and in every city, town, or village, spies were-searching for him with u!M ceasing vigilance. 1 l -_, Immense rewards were otfe\ed for his arrest, while he was qnietly making his way toward Kilkieran Bay, whence he trusted to escape'by water to France . eanwhlle Captain Dlrkem was burled, and Lady Agnes was restored to her mourning relatives. The young lord was overjoyed to meet his betrothed, and O'Hara proposed that they should go ta' England, and remain there lll!til the Fenian troub1e was ended, to which proposition Banker readily ag leed, knowing that his own life -was in constant danger among his lon g -abused tenants; and in England he conld wed the Lady Agnes. Thus it was settled between them. Joe Dasher was on board the English brig. He it was who f6und out that Captain Moran was a Fenian Smuggler, antl put enemies on his tr.ack. The English cqmmander Cruised abOut, hoping to capture the saucy little clipper, but every time they bore downupon her she showed them a clean pair of heels, causing young Dirkem to cur110 in baffied rage. i Thus remained on the' water. Sickness, sorrow, aild deatb. were frequent visitor to the humble cabins on Kilkieran beach, and the gaunt spectre of Famine was kept from the peasants' doors by the plentiful 111pply or fish conld be had at all timea.

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llA.D NA.NOY The Osprey's Nest was fill e d with a joyous party, and sw eet strai ns of mu s i c e c h oed through the s pacious hall at ni g ht, w h e re the dancers pass e d the swift-winged hours by trip ping on the li ght fantastic toe." The poor heard the music a s t hey sat by th e ir cabin doors. but the entrancing str a ins found no e c ho in. th e ir sorrowing h e art s w h e n mingl e d wi t h the, 'Wall of anguish that was them continu a lly. Thus aff a irs rewaiued on the beach, where the wild waves washed the white sands, and the wind whi s tled around the beetling crag1 that stood thti assault of Time disdanfully On the 1 bleak mQOt', 4ndy ,Martin's mother waited"anxiously: (pr fir boy l s returp, and the ,cal;>in 'Yf.S more lonely sinc;e Shairuock her But she f.r\lsted that God :was watchin g over him and believed in her-U!nv: avering faith, He would restore her iaol Qnce 'mQ.I'e. , iMad :lj" ancy still wandered about w;i:th .per harp ; singing her wild songs, reading futu re mysteries for. those who '. crossed her with goltl, and ga,theri11g valuable informatign by the way. , She had closed tl;ie and secured the door of Emmett Clare's cottage, and day; she the -sick, doing hmumerable acts of ch a ritable kindn,_ess, for whic;h blessings were sll.owered upon her, and for which her reward will be given in the bri g hter The searchJor Feniane was continued with unabated vigor aud num e rous acts of brutal cruelty were which we hate .no space to record. 90 T Dirlrem's dtagoop.s para d ed to and fr 9 Qn Jplk!eran bee.ch, and the poo r people were al;>qsed d111IY, without any whatever. They were Irish, and that was a sufficient I -

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.KAD& ANOY. llS I CHAPTER XVI. J THll: TWO f\URPHIBE-THB-'bR.A.QOONI h') I' -.A DBSP,lffiA:l'B, FIGII'r < J r l One night, when Peter was sqi9king in h1s tap room, and t ,wo old m.en sipping their punch i&t a table near by, and-a strauger1 was sitting beueatl;a tlte swinging lamp, endeavoring to re-ad tlie Dublin 11imfg-, by its uncertain light, two foQt-travelers entered the open door, and approaching the bar, asked (Qr some whisi..y. As the la.udlord waited on them, the old men paid DO at: tention to the travelers ; bqt the gentlemau ;w:tw was glanced sharply at them over his paner, and1 it aown carelessly, he sauntered slowly toward the door, whist;.. ling Garryowe. ,. .n 1 .He paced the long stoo1>, as though occupied with hiirown thoughts, and finllollY walked down the roa9 to Ward Kilkieran; quickening his gait when a shortdistance away. 1 a. quarter-of a mile away b& comme.Q.ced running, and wh en he reitcb,ed Os2rey's Nest be W\18 panfing for breath. In about ten minutes after his arriy al six
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.MA D N A N 0 Y. the troublous times ; until the Spy turned toward him and inquired: "Do you think you'll know me when we meet again ?" Mine host blushed, for be wail a timid man, and he was afraid his rude ha.cl angered his interrogator. "I beg your pardon; I meant no harm," he stammered, and the travelers lau g hed merrily. "Who do you think I am? Do I look anything like Neil Oonnor ?" asked the strang e r "Oh I murdher, man d e ar, is it indeed Neil?" cried the delighted landlord, as he ext e nded his hand, which the Spy grasped warmly. "Thank God, you're safe I Sure I was wondherin' fwhere you was dhis long time, an' the polace huntin' ye in all directions. Well, well, begorra, I'm a happy man dhis night. And who is your fri'nd ?" he added, glanc ing at Neil's companion. The Chief immediately answered for himself before the R'lY' could teplJ' : "I am a true Iriship.an; my name is Stephen Peter was unljke most of his countrymen so dull of com. prehension he didn't "see tl)e point," and, as neither of them enlightened him, he remained in ignorance. While the Spy was conversing with P e ter, the door was 1 noiseiessly opened and six dragoons rushed in with drawn 11words. In an instant Stephens and his companion were on their feet, an-a drawing' two revolvers, shot two of their enemies dead. The remaining four followed quickly, and attacked the resolute Fenians furiomily, while Peter retreated behind the bar, quaking with terror. "Take them alive if you can, but cut them down if they try to escape," shouted their leader, and then l,J.e aimed a furious blow at the Spy with the sword. Surrend e r, you traitors," he cried, as he wounded Neil in the left sh b ulder, and his com pan ions charged Stephens bard as he retreated towards the wall, so that tliey might not get behind him. r;t

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MAD NANCY. II Don't surrender I fight tiU you die!' ) exclaimed Stephens, i.nd another assailant fell before his unerri.Iig aim JBufl;h'.eir enemies were brave men, and two of them grape pled Spy, disarming him, and bearing him heavily to. the floor. The other dragoon, a muscular man, over six feet high, closed with the C 0. I. R. and the struggle between them was fearful. J Thi' I Fenian refugees wotild doubtless have been captured If aid had not arrived in time. A large dog bounded into the tap-room, and in an instant he had S t ephens' asBailant by tbe tliroat. it was Shamrock, Lid close '"'oii. the animal's lieels canie Andy Martin, with a Wild yell that made the pJace ring again. Jo I l r < In a moment he recognized the disguised Fenlans, fur he knew that they were coming', and he was hastening to meet them. He had arrived just in time. Without pausing a moment he swung the heavy club which he carried high in air, and one of Neil's enemies fell heaVily on the floor. The Spy quickly mastered the other, and Shamrock finislied the fast. c 1r 'tmrrrah for ould Ireland I Hurrah for Jem Stephens; dhe Fenian Spy, Andy Martin, an' the dog Shamrock I rn Holy Sain Patb,rfck', but yese had a near go of it, an' yese'may thank me fur savin' yese I ') u rm alwa-ys turnin' up like a bad cint whin no wan is expectin' Die? exclaimed Andy. Dhey got word aboord dhe ship yese would be here night; an' Moran s1n{ me to meel7yese. r Shake hands. Long life tO ou Mr. Ster>Jrene "Come away, Shamrock, an' -don't ate dhe man's head off!" V fis: P.IJW < ,' l J .1 I The excited Irishn:lan fittled f out these s entences hastily, -giving his Menas no chance to..@peak, ana when be Md: done; he tucked his bludgeon under his arm and extended Mth liands. o nrr OJ f mllai 1 O l.) Btepliens and the Spy trasfiM them;i and thanked liim for his timely aid. -\ 'II ; 1 iVe war'
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I MAD l!l'ANOY. Is always a traitor in every organization Have you formed any plans for the future?" "Yes; I have decided to seek refuge in France, and from there I shall sail for America, to settle the dispute between the O Mahony and Sweeny factions. I am sorry that Irishmen never agree among themselves whenever the y are striving for liberty. The y all want to be J!ead Centres, and they all have separate plans of their own for th f owing off the tyrant's yoke. Millions of dollars ha.ve poured into the Fenian treasury in America.; enough to build a fleet ; e quip the larg e st army ever known in modern his tory; carry on a war age.inst our enemies for a whoie year; and yet no account has been kept. Nobody knows a.nytl).ing about it, and those who ought to give an account of every penny, are as ignorant as those who gave it, or they pretend to be : I a.m almost a.she.med to go aQJ.ong the American peo ple after the disgraceful conduct of the Brotherhood ; and I have a. ha.rd task to st;!'aighten matters among them." He sighed, and gazed sadly out on the dark expanse of waters, for his bee.rt :was troubled, and his spotless cha.ra.cter stained by those in whom not only himself but tbe wholQ Irish people blindly confided. Father Darcy was about to make a rellllloJ'k, bt h e was in terrupted by the hoarse cry that caused all to sta_rt, ancl which ended all further conversatiQn.

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88 CHAPTER XVII .lll llOITING OH.lSB-RUNNING THB GA.UNTLB1'-JUPPI FWALB "Bail ho!" was the cry that startled them from the look ut. "Where away ?" shouted Captain Moran. 11 "Three points leeward, on th e weather bow." What do you make her out?" same brig that has been in pursuit of us for a month past. There is a breeze springing up, and she is creeping down on us." ".All hands on deck! We must run for it," added Moran, turning to Stephens, who appeared anxious Can you get out into the open waters before the 1 brig cuts off our retreat ? I dread the thought of being captured again, for life is dear to me still. I wish to see old Erin free; I wish to write Emmett's epitaph, then I am ready when ever the Master calls me. The Captain was gazing through his glass, and the Spy was giving orders in a loud voice; the anchor was shipped, the sails were spread, and the gallant vessel began to 2 ove swiftly away. Neil Connor stood at the helm. "Let the women, Father Darcy and Mark go below," shouted the Captain, "for they are opening their ports, and we shall have a shot presently. Down with you, and don't be alarmed, whatever happens. Starboard your helm I Steady Head her for the French coast when we reaoh the open sea! "Crowd on all sail! Run out yottr guna and stand firm. Hr. Stephana, you will be &&fer ill the cabw.n

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KJ.D NJ.NOY, 81 ''God watches over me, and with your permission I will remain on deck," replied the patriot, and Captain Moran walked away. The chase soon grew very exciting, for the clipper wu striving to pass St. Anthony's Nose, and the brig was en deavoring to cut off her retreat, every moment bringin1 them nearer together. But the clipper gained fast, and Moran's enemies saw tha' he would pass unless they crippled him in some manner. Suddenly a loud report echoed over the waters, followed rapidly by another, and still another, in quick succession. The bulwarks of the clipper were shattered, her bowsprit was carried away, but she seemed to fly over the waves, and giving her antagonist a parting salute, she passed the fatal point and swept gallantly out to the open sea. A wild cheer of exultation arose, in which Stephens joined, and the English brig was soon left far astern. The moon arose, the wind freshened, and the dark headlands faded gradually from sight. That night, Nell Clare and Neil Connor were wedded on deck, in the moonlight, by Father Darcy, and Andy Martin played the violin till dawn for the merry dancers. Stephens was merry as any of them, and when the happy pair retired, Mad Nancy got her harp and sung olden balladl until the patriot's heart was filled with emotion. And now little remains to be 11aid, for our hero and heroine hava ended the romance. How Stephens landed safe in France, and bow he reached our shores is well known, and we draw the curtain o-ver it. past. James Stephens is a true man; a noble patriot; and a lover of his country, though slanderous tonguea have 1trivea to defile hil spotless name. THE :END.

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Another Choice Collection 01' FIN. E ST SONCS, ORIGJ;NAL. SELEO'l'ED, Jr.OR The Fireside, the Social Ci-r.de, the Solill.fn" and the Sailor. Munro's Song Book, No. 10. THE HOME SONGSTER. ,. OOl'ITAlSlNG TH..m tatest h.oice l)mi.c and Sentimental Al\lO'.'lO WHICH ARE THE FOLLOWING. a I (;ape 'em some Trouble to it. 0, 'Pat, be was a 'Darlint :Boy Hoecake Sal. . 'H'Aen I went on the Spree .lKy Moustache. :Black Cmsar at the Korth .7l. Good :Beeftteal; for And sixty others, teeming with mirth, jollity and good humor As these song11. are int.ended for the. social ente11tail\ment of the fl,\mily, those which ha:ve been selected were ch9sen with the greatest care Others were composed for this book, and the two classes make up the choicest selection that has yet been presented to the public. It is for sale by all News Agents and Booksellers, and will be s ent, post-paid, oa oeipt of price, 10 otll. each. GEORGE MUNRO & 0<>., Publishers, 137 WILUAM. STREET, N. 'i